The magical aura of the desert is hard to put into words. To those who have never spent time there, the desert feels like a stranger—but for anyone who has, it casts an irresistible spell. Perhaps it is the sense of emptiness and infinite space, or the scarcity of plants and animals that leaves you face to face with nature, and with yourself. It never takes long after I return from the desert before I feel its pull again. Yet the desert does not reveal its secrets easily—only those who are truly passionate will earn the right. If you are still a stranger to the desert, I strongly recommend visiting soon…