Keeping Things in Perspective

 Mountains have always captured our imaginations, calling us to scale their heights, to circle and worship at their feet, and to pay homage to their greatness. These majestic landforms can be seen from thousands of miles away, and when we are lucky enough to be on top of one, we can see great stretches of the surrounding Earth. As a result, mountains symbolize vision and the ability to rise above the adjacent lowlands and see beyond our immediate vicinity. From the top of the mountain, we are able to witness life from a new perspective — cities and towns that seem large when we are in them look tiny. In a single glance, we can see so much, reminding us how big this world truly is.

Mountains are almost always considered holy and spiritual places, and the energy at the top is undeniably unique. When we are at the peak of a mountain, it is as if we have ascended to an alternate realm, one in which the air is purer and the energy lighter. Many people have climbed to the top of a mountain in order to connect with a higher source of understanding, and many have come back down feeling stronger and wiser. Whenever we are feeling trapped or limited in our vision, a trip to the nearest mountain may be just the cure we need.

There’s a reason these views are so highly prized in this world. Even from a distance, mountains remind us of how small we are, which often comes as a wonderful relief. They also illustrate our ability to connect with higher energy. As they rise up from the Earth, sometimes disappearing in the clouds that gather around them, they are a visual symbol, reaching up into the heavens. Whether we have a mountain view from our window or just a photograph of a mountain placed where we can see it every day, we can rely on these earthly giants to provide inspiration, vision, and a daily reminder of our humble place in the grand scheme of life.(Daily OM)