|
It has been 57 years, almost to the day, since I climbed Kings Peak (Utah’s highest peak in the Uinta Mountains) for my first time. I was 12 years old. Since then, I have scaled that mountain of life (physically and figuratively) many times. But that one day set a course for me and my ever-exploring spirit. And it is with great joy that, minutes ago today, I received word that my grandson Liam, who is also 12, climbed that mountain for the first time. I hope his path in life also treads countless footprints over trails of determined courses that bring fulfillment and happiness. Since that time, I have always found solace and happiness helping to map and develop trails. I have experienced so much joy serving on the Board of our local South Summit Trails Foundation. This group of kind volunteers is incredible, and they are so devoted! The work that they have done to develop trails through the Kamas Valley and Uinta Mountains is extraordinary. We have successfully raised and constructed several million dollars worth of multi-use, non-motorized trails for public use. Friends on trails become friends forever! It is on these paths that I find much of my deepest therapies with nature. Nothing works better for mental and emotional health than a trek in nature. I also sense God’s presence and love for all of His children and creation. He spiritually meets me in these secret places, and I carry that feeling in my heart throughout life. As I age and suffer with some weird health issues, I tend to live those same experiences through you all, as I see and hear your stories and posts on social media. You all make me better. Keep it up and spread this wondrous peace with your friends. I also love history, and I am attaching to this newsletter a link to a very short story I wrote about 25 years ago titled, “Life in an Orogeny.” This story paints the tale of the history of Kamas Valley and the Uinta Mountains through the lens of a newly drilled well for Oakley City. And this story begins a couple billion years ago. I hope you enjoy it. It is, shall I say—different. Find peace upon life’s beautiful trails, my dear friends, Doug
|
