In the last few months I have had the opportunity to visit three mountain ranges, all surrounded by the trees. First there was the Ouatchita Mountains, the only mountain range in the US that runs east/west. Here I found streams, waterfalls, paths, healing, fog, sunsets, and rocks amidst the trees. Often times the trees were not the focus, the streams or rocks caught your eye first but they were constant, holding, adding to the beauty even if they were not the primary focus. Sometimes a tree would grab your attention and show you something and other times they would gently sway in the background giving shelter and protection to the animals, as well as being a food source.
The next mountains were the Tetons. They are majestic and wild and amidst the trees. There you could find mountains, lakes, the power of nature, animals, community and death amidst the trees. The trees once again were often in the background to the mountains but once in awhile they would be the predominant feature in a subtle way, always there and always supporting in some way.
My final mountain trip was to the Canadian Rockies. Spectacular. The beauty is awe inspiring, one of the most beautiful places I have seen. The mountains, of course, are the predominant feature and the tress accent and support, adding to the beauty, giving color and texture and once again providing sustenance to those who live in the forested mountains. Amidst the trees I found lakes, clouds, peace, tranquility, waterfalls, streams, and beauty everywhere I looked.
Wherever you find yourself in this world, notice what you see amidst the trees. There are hidden gems everywhere, even the places where trees are sparse, perhaps even more is hidden in the trees there. Find the beauty and know the trees are holding the beauty within and without. Come play in the tress with us at our retreat in September, the trees should be colorful then, or at our next workshop. We look forward to seeing you.