Several years ago, I wrote a poem called ‘Advice from a Mountain.’  The poem offers a bit of mountain wisdom that can help us as we maneuver through this thing called life.  Reach new heights.  Savor life’s peak experiences.  Stand in the strength of Your True Nature.  Life has its ups and downs.  Enjoy the journey step by step. 

I find that climbing a tall mountain is the perfect metaphor for life.  We make plans, chart our courses, and set out, step by step, to reach our destinations.  In mountain climbing, as in life, we are bound to face obstacles.  We have many decisions to make along the trail that either bring us closer to our destinations or cause us to reassess our plans.  It is not about reaching the top nearly as much as it is about enjoying the journey.  If we are relentlessly climbing to new heights but forget to savor the moments along the way, we may miss some of the most beautiful vistas and views.  If we get thrown off track by obstacles, we may never reach our goals. On the otherhand, if we fail to see when we are on the wrong path in life and don’t pay attention to the signs around us, we can end up in dangerous territory far from our intended destinations.  Knowing when to change directions is just as important as mapping our course in the first place.  When I am out hiking, I am continually reminded that the obstacles I face in life are gifts beyond measure.  It is from the rocky times that I learn perseverance and gain a stronger sense of self-reliance and inner trust.  I have observed many times that those who make it to the top of big mountains are not necessarily physically stronger than those who turn back.  Those who summit are generally stronger in spirit. On the mountain trail as well as in day to day life….it is ultimately a personal journey and we all get to choose our paths.  Wherever you stand today, I hope you will “never take life for granite” and that you will be able to “stand in the strength of Your True Nature.”  To read the complete poem or to order an Advice from a Mountain tee shirt, poster, or journal, make a visit to the Your True Nature website.  Rock On!