During the Pandemic, I spent dozens of hours riding my bike trainer in a digital recreation of Borrego Springs. The app developers had spent hours meticulously recreating the glorious mountain ranges and expansive desert vista. After spending so much time in the simulation, it felt like I had already been there.

Fast forward a year later. I find myself driving through Borrego Springs and quickly realize that I know nothing about this place beyond a couple of familiar visual cues. I don’t know anything about the culture, climate, food, activities, or people that live here.

#Familiarity is not the same as #knowledge. Recognizing the difference – both in ourselves and in others is vital.