Climbing a Mountain

You know Pete, the first time I climbed to the top of Timp it was quite an adventure. Our group started at the Timpaneke Campground up American Fork Canyon. It's a longer way to the top of the mountain from that side, but not as steep right off. The trail has its twists and turns. Sometimes it even disappears from view because of snow or rocks. And there are switchbacks and you think you are covering the same ground over again. You have to put your trust in those who have walked the mountain before you. You can tell you are going uphill though and you have to stop and rest every once in a while. You have to listen to your body to know when to rest and when to start up again. Along the way you see and learn things. The beauty of nature is all around you with trees and wildflowers and birds and animals and rocks and water. You know that none of it is there by mistake. It was created for our enjoyment and growth. If we take the time, and don't rush through it, it is magnificent. Finally you get to the "saddle" where you can see the whole valley. It is beautiful! We ate lunch there and to rest and get some more energy, because the hardest part was still ahead of us. A lot of people quit when they get to the saddle, but that is not the top of the mountain. You have to go all the way to the metal shed on the very tip top to complete the journey. You can see it from the saddle and it seems like it is only another 10 or 15 minutes away but it is anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes away. It took us 45 minutes. It is very steep. It has big rocks to get over and lots of loose shale. It takes every amount of energy to go the last little bit. By now your body hurts, your muscles hurt, and you want to give up. You have to keep your eyes on the goal--the metal shed. Finally you arrive!!! And from the top of the mountain you can now see both sides...both valleys! The view is unbelievable. You get to sign your name in a book in the metal shed and outside you get to sing "We Are The Champions!" and "Celebrate!" For a small moment life is victorious, YOU are victorious!

Pete, over the last two months you too have been climbing a mountain. You are GOOD at that! I have followed you before!! You are like a mountain goat running free!! You have been on a path this time that only you can follow. We are all here cheering you along, but you are the one that has to do it. There have been setbacks and switchbacks. You have gotten frustrated and your body has hurt. You feel like you don't have any more energy. Don't quit at the "saddle". Go to the metal shed. Go to the top of mountain!! We will carry you there if need be, like the angels helped the Willey and Martin Handcart companies. We are here with you, praying for you, cheering for you. Don't give up!! We love you! We are very aware that our lives are in the hands of a loving Heavenly Father, but so is the beauty on the mountain. Enjoy the journey. Enjoy the view. Enjoy each new day. Keep the faith. Trust in those helping you. Your family and friends love you. God bless you for the joy you bring to our family. YOU ARE THE CHAMPION MY FRIEND!

Tahna Whitaker