Lookout point

Elena on a more recent hike, contemplating

The first time we took Elena on a certain hike, she was just little, and a little anxious. We were far away from what was familiar to her, under the cover of trees for most of the time, with bends and twists that kept her in the shadows, and from seeing what was up ahead. She expressed concern, but we all kept telling her that everything was going to be fine, and not to worry or be afraid.  

There's a certain point along the path where there is a break in the trees, allowing the hiker an awesome panoramic view of the ocean and the town below.  When she came upon this opening, she stood on a little rock, and said with wonder and delight, "I can see the world, and the world is beautiful!"  I don't think she's ever been afraid on a hike since.

There are times when, because of the shadows, we don't see all the good things in our lives, or we have no idea what wonderful things are coming because our view is obstructed.  Every once in awhile, during those times, there is an opening of light and sight, and we get a glimpse, a view of how wonderful and wondrous life can be, or really is.  I love those lookout points, the view they give makes all the toil along the trail worth it.