by Claude Edwards
In June, Blind Community Center members toured the Botanical Building in Balboa Park. Lyn, his guide dog Aristotle, Ethel, her granddaughter, and Ginny Nork, joined Balboa Park ranger Kim Duclo and me. The Botanical Building was abuzz with visitors who were there to marvel at the amazing variety of tropical plants. A calming shade surrounded us as we passed through its arched doorways. Ranger Duclo said the historic structure opened a century ago, as part of the California Exposition.
With emphasis on using our sense of touch, smell and hearing, we were shown the garden, pausing at one plant after another growing beside narrow walkways. At nearly every step and turn, we saw various trees and shrubs, some with flowers, exploring them with our fingertips. The richness and variety of sights, textures and sensations were overwhelming. Ethel suggested incorporating Braille signs for non-sighted visitors.
We listened to the sounds of the Balboa Park bell tower chiming, peoples’ voices, a baby hummingbird chirping, water flowing, and the blaring of truck horns and alarms outside. When we left the garden, we were attracted to sweet aromas arising from potted orchids near the entrance. To our delight, they reminded us of vanilla cake frosting and cinnamon.