I was just out of college, living on my own in Lawrence, KS when I remember opening my mind to many new ideas and ways to see and live in this world. There was one bit of guidance that stayed with me and has help me shape my experiences and live with greater intention. It's a simple idea, used in many teachings across the world, that thought, feeling, and action attract similar thoughts, feelings, and actions. I dug deep with this idea and self-awareness was critical. My world seemed so much more exciting because now, when I'm upset, I realize that it is my choice... and what will I choose... (I like to be happy)
About a year later, I had the opportunity to take a road trip for two weeks with a friend. We decided on Colorado, exploring the Rocky Mountains. I had visited the Rockies several times before with my family when I was much younger. I loved each time we got to visit and hike the mountain trails to a beautiful, crystal clear lake, or a mountain peak. Now, as an adult, it was just me and all of the world. There's something about a mountain to give the feeling of being on top of the world. There were some amazing, and sometimes otherworldly experiences that were shared in the Rockies on that trip. The morning we were set to drive back to Lawrence, was Sept. 11, 2001. I didn't know much about New York at the time, but the weight of the attack left a heavy silence much of the drive home.
Today, I look at a mountain and I see a story. I don't know exactly how it goes, but I can appreciate that there is one.
