November 05- The Top of the Mountain
You can stand tall without standing on someone. You can be a victor without having victims. – Harriet Woods
It’s over. A nearly two year struggle between men and women and political parties, ideals, and visions has come to an end. We have a new president, and with the political tide comes the promise of change, of a better country, a more promising future for Americans and indeed the world.
Winner and losers abound this morning. Those who find themselves elected are now faced with the daunting task of living up to campaign slogans and stump rhetoric. A new title means new responsibilities and obligations. Often it’s not the climb to the top that is most difficult. It’s maintaining position at the top of the heap, where every breath is scrutinized and each decision is torn apart for appropriateness, strength and acceptability. The top of the mountain is indeed a precarious place to be, especially in this economic downturn.
Each of us makes a climb everyday. We choose the winding path, the trail that leads straight up or the meandering side road that eventually gets us to where we want or need to be. We travel light, with a free spirit or we travel loaded down with useless baggage that impedes our journey. We learn to cherish our daily walk up the mountain, or complain and rail against the need for such a thing. We walk on others during our journey, or we choose to lend a helping hand, a sympathetic ear or an inspiring example.
Recognize today’s journey, whether you’re in a van, a plane or a bus, as a step in the trail to the top of the mountain. But do reserve some energy for the stay at the top, where the air is thin and the nights are cold. But where the stars are within reach and the scenery is spectacular.
