The spiritual mountains we climb throughout our lives are really gifts in disguise. Without being tested to some degree we will never know the inner strength we possess. I truly believe that when our climbing is over, we will sit on the mountain top and gaze below at the valleys we have walked through. Some of the valleys are green and lush and others are desert and rocky so that we will know the difference between easier and more peaceful times, and those times that are more difficult and harder to bear. Personally, I am very grateful for my climb so far. Though it is not over, I have learned important lessons along the way and acknowledge what a beautiful patchwork of emotions and strengths are found in the valleys of life.
