A web-based ad by Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism pans down through the magnificent fjord of Western Brook Pond in Gros Morne National Park on Newfoundland's west coast.  The scrolling caption reads:  "The world can't weigh you down when you're standing on top of it." 

Maybe that's why I head off to the mountains whenever I can.  This past week, I accompanied a buddy of mine on a hike to Coliseum Mountain in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park.  He will offer this hike in the name of the Alpine Club of Canada this coming August, so my friend wanted to do a day of recon.  Of course, I immediately accepted and committed myself to the 10 hour, 20.4 km hike with a 1200 m elevation gain. 

During my recent retreat in Abbotsford, I crossed the border one day and drove to Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest to admire up close the snow-covered glaciated volcano of Mount Baker under blazing blue skies.  I wanted to set up tent and rest a while.  It was simply stunning and I promised myself a return visit. 

What is it about mountains that "peak" our attention?  Many things I suppose.  Mountains are the home of the gods (and God), the purveyors of the sublime and guardians of mystery.  Mountains attract countless climbers and hikers.  What would Canada be without the Rockies?  Jesus of Nazareth preached the "sermon on the mount."  Moses received the ten commandments on Mount Sinai.  Benedictines prefer to build their monasteries on mountains.   Many a hiker grinds up Grouse Mountain each day. 

We see far from mountains.   There's nothing above us to worry about.  It takes effort to reach the top, but the sacrifices always seem worthwhile.  My hiking buddy made a wise statement about mountains, I thought. He said that mountains are always approached slowly and deliberately.  One does not climb a mountain in haste.  Mountains take time.  Respect is demanded.  Maybe that is a good paradigm for the spiritual life.  Wisdom takes time.  Rome was not built in a day.  Neither are our lives. 

So, the next time you feel weighed down, take to the hills.  However, if you must stay on the flats, remember that the road to God is also a great climb – a climb upon which all of us are invited to venture.  Despite the many cul-de-sacs, the dead-ends, the one-way streets or the wrong turns, the mountain of God will always be there, shrouded in mystery, forever calling us home.