In Others' Words: Mountains

A view of Pike's Peak through The Siamese Twins (photo by Amy Vogt)

"I've learned that everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it." ~Author Unknown

One of my favorite things to do in Colorado is hike. I savor the sunshine and the shadows of the woods, the uncertainty of what's around the next bend in the trail, even the ache of tired muscles. There are times when a hike proves more challenging than expected. I work hard to stifle my complaints. I'm tired. I'm thirsty. Can we turn around? Instead, I focus on the time spent with my family and friends, knowing that pushing past my "this wasn't what I signed up for" grumpiness will tinge my memories with a particular brand of satisfaction.


Getting to the top of the mountain is great. Achieving any goal is well worth a celebratory moment. Or two. But I've learned you can't live on the mountain top. There's always the next goal. Real living comes in the climb. When you don't quit. When you help someone else who's more tired than you. When you discover you're stronger than you ever imagined. 


So, what about you? Climbing any mountains? Don't focus on just getting to the top. Stop. Take a breather. And realize how much you've already accomplished.