These past few weeks, I've felt a little discouraged. It has felt like there have been more "downs" than "ups," and we've found it hard to know where to go next. I found it very comforting when I happened to read an article where Paul V. Johnson describes one of his favorite hikes, full of beautiful vistas and tall limestone cliffs.
He says, "Getting to the top of the cliffs isn't easy, however. The trail there is a constant climb; and just before reaching the top, the climber encounters the steepest part of the trail; and the views of the canyon are hidden by the cliffs themselves."
As I pondered on this, I thought back on the "ups and downs" we have already encountered as we have only just begun this journey. Life is a constant climb and there are moments that you wonder what is up ahead (hidden from our view).
He then continues, "The final exertion is more than worth the effort because once the climber is on top, the views are breathtaking. The only way to see the views is to make the climb."
Mount Hood. Image by Darrell Wyatt
This phrase took on new meaning to me as I thought about "the mountains and the valleys" of this journey. It's often hard to see the "goal" ahead, and you find yourself questioning every step to you take.
This simple paragraph helped encourage me as I think of the beautiful baby that we hope to soon hold in our arms. It will be a climb, but like he says, "The only way to see the [breathtaking] views is to make the climb." We know that this journey will be "more than worth the effort," and we are excited to make the climb.
Sarah
