May 2025 - Phoenix Rising

May 2025 - Phoenix Rising

Design notes from the artist:  Chris Mackey

While recently talking to some fellow cachers, I was excited to learn that a geocacher who had disappeared off our radar had suddenly started caching again.  I get it.  Life happens.  Things disrupt our patterns.  Sometimes you can get burned out for a bit, but then that small spark or ember within slowly waits it's moment before becoming a flame again.  You find your passion for the trail and discovery, for travel and community in like-minded adventurers.  Like a phoenix whose time burned bright and then lost its flame for a moment, you feel reborn.  You start remembering everything about what drew you to geocaching in the beginning.  You feel the excitement in the little things that bring you joy, peace of mind, and make you feel more alive.

This coin is a token of recognition to those who've had their flame snuffed for a spell before being rekindled.  This phenomenon is as old as humans themselves with the legend of the phoenix pervading people and lands from all over.  Symbols for rebirth are celebrated in almost every culture and land throughout history.  Maybe it's something we need to experience to appreciate, but it's real and can be a defining moment for us all.  Here's to hoping your inner fire continues to burn bright and should the day ever come that it burns low, here's to hoping it's not too long before that spark is reborn like the phoenix and you Rise Up Again.