Climbing Mountains

When in the midst of an adventure, one loses the concern for time. Days blend together in a beautiful swirl of colors, music, and fragrance. As our senses bloom with the sweet aroma of adventure, we begin to understand that the dusty road along the way is just as satisfying to the soul as the triumphant entry into the actual destination. I've found that when we become too fixed on the end,that we can miss out on the beauty of the journey, even though the road is long and dangerous, with many trials and tribulations.

Yesterday I climbed a mountain from base to peak in Tepotzlan, Mexico. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. There were thousands of steps of ancient rock through the jungle to the very top cliffs. Every time it seemed we were close, the next corner would unveil yet another long trek to climb.

But around every corner something new would also peak through the trees. A white butterfly as big as a magnolia blossom, a tree with roots twisting every which way, quietly ascending year upon year in quiet splendor, a breathtaking view of a cave, secretly tucked away in the mountain, or a laugh between friends that coaxed the birds into song.

In climbing mountains, there is suffering, laboring, and moments where it seems easier to give up, but it is in those moments that we must look around and see the glory. The road is hard, but it is beautiful. And when we finally reach the top of the mountain, we celebrate in joyful triumph, the end being so sweetly satisfying because of the perseverance and hardships that it took to make it there. Then all that remains is to rest in the moment, letting it carry you away as you melt into that pure peace.

And when you are standing on top of the world, firmly on that mountain, nothing can take away the truth you know of victory. Nothing can take back the moment when you first looked out on the horizon and saw freedom. It is yours to treasure forever.