A meditation from my hike in the Gorge today . . . Like all those who walk, I had two choices on where to focus my attention, the rocky path below or the view up ahead, the trail on which I traveled or the destination for which I set out. It was most natural for me to look down at my steps rather than to look out at the view. The former was easy, the latter took intentional effort and time to stop, look, listen, wait, and see that which was beyond myself. Somewhere there is a lesson in that for all of us as we navigate difficult times.

When the path ahead is steep and the footing is uncertain, with rocks and roots to make you stumble, loose dirt to make you slip. It is easy in the moment to fix your gaze below, to plan with care each well-placed step. But don’t forget the reason you walk and let your eyes drift upward. It is not for the rocks and roots you came, but the beauty on the horizon.

And on this road to righteousness
Sometimes the climb can be so steep
I may falter in my steps
But never beyond Your reach
O God, You are my God
And I will ever praise you
I will seek You in the morning
And I will learn to walk in Your ways
And step-by-step You'll lead me
And I will follow You all of my days

Rich Mullins