The Meaning of Life

July 22nd, 2008 Wade

Yes folks, I’ve found it! I’d tell you, but I’m sworn to secrecy.

If you’d like to find it for yourself though just head up a trail on the nearest mountain. At lease that’s what a recent study suggests. Reuters did an article on this and here is what they had to say…

“Far from being a sport that just provides thrills for testosterone-fuelled risk-takers, mountaineering actually helps gives people perspective in their lives, according to Lee Davidson, senior lecturer at the University of Victoria’s museum and heritage studies program.

“It’s a way to look for meaning in life, it gives people a sense of focus, makes them see what’s really of value,” Davidson, a climber herself, told Reuters.”

I’d have to agree with the article. There is a serenity and peace that can be found in remote wilderness areas, in the mountains, that is difficult to achieve in a world of concrete and steel. Sitting and watching a sunset crawl below the snowy peaks with only one sound in your ear, wind, can be deep. When mountaineering or backpacking comes up in conversation, people think I’m some crazy Xtreme person for taking part. They simply don’t understand that it’s more about slowing down, clearing your mind, and pushing your body to reach a place that most people will never see. The view from a mountain is sort of like putting a chair in the corner of your bedroom and standing on it. Looking around you see everything from a different angle. You gain new knowledge and appreciation for everything.

Get out.

via Sierra Blogging Post

Entry Filed under: Backpacking, General, Mountaineering, Outdoor News