There's just something about going on a hike by yourself that is different from any other experience. As I solo hiked this week (yes, people knew where I was, and get this, I EVEN TOOK ENOUGH WATER WITH ME :D), I felt rejuvenated, inspired, and at peace with myself. It's like you discover a part of your inner being, that's usually hard to channel (am I sounding existential enough yet?); as soon as you're free from outside "noise." It's just you, the wind blowing through the trees, and God. The actual physical exertion of hiking has its own rewards, because for one, you are forced to concentrate. Then when you reach the overlooks, the views mean much more because of the "sacrifice" you made to get there.
As we go through the drudgery/excitement of a usual day, it is just too easy to loose our "true self!" The pressing things of the moment need attention, and inquirings of the deep inner being are often passed over. How often do we think of the riches of eternity, or see ourselves as the glorious children of God that we are, with His light shining through us? How often do we simply stop and stand still? In thinking about this, I am reminded that the temple is a great place to reconnect with the spirit, and commune with our Heavenly Father. Since I'm so far away from one now, I am grateful that the beauties of nature are so near.
I feel like I found myself all over again as I jumped over and climbed around boulders, or sat overlooking the hills from various points along the trails. Now I remember why John Muir says to "come to the mountains... wash your soul clean"!
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| From June 2009 |
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