After days and weeks and years of walking on mountain trails, whenever I get a chance, I believe I am beginning to see the light, starting to understand that for some nature is the gateway to the divine.

The feeling that the years are passing one by without having really lived falls away while up there. I get into into a satisfying rhythm of activities, staying warm and well fed, being careful and safe, but also wandering wherever my interest takes me. I make sure I am not on the move all day, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the view, and the moment, and the silence, as well as the companionship of my good dogs.

It all changes you, causes you to see how incredible and life-fulfilling a single day can be. You learn to pay attention to the beauty of the mountains, which is its own reward. Spend enough time up there and your heart will turn to one of gratitude, for having the health and desire to walk on those high trails, for being there when the light breaks through the clouds onto the wilderness peaks.