Standing on the mountain, we're confronted by billions of years condensed in rock. We see the grand history of life, from single-celled organisms to us. We wonder, 'Who are we in this vastness?' We reach the peak, and an ancient rock hits our hand. We realize it witnessed the dawn of life on Earth. It's a silent testament to the planet's incredible journey. The silence is profound. It feels like the Earth itself is speaking, crying out against the damage we inflict. We see the destruction of ecosystems, the changing climate, the suffering we cause. How can we be better members of this grand story of life? How can we contribute instead of harm? The mountain has no answer, but the silence speaks volumes.
May we find humility in the face of Earth's ancient witness,
and may the profound silence of the mountain guide us towards stewardship, compassion, and a deeper understanding
of our place in the grand narrative of life.
(adapted from: Marya Grathwohl, This Wheel of Rocks)