The mountains. They make a gathering place, a sanctuary, a retreat, a playground. They are laden with adventure, wrapped in the unknown, and filled to the brim with beauty. My fascination with the mountains, particularly those of Appalachia, seems to be neverending. Every trail has had countless sneakers, sandals, and boots walk its path, and each with their own story to tell. There is something about these foothills that seems to connect us all together. Not in a religious sense, but simply by the idea that humans are living and breathing, and so are the Appalachians, in their own way. While people have brains and hearts, the mountains have springs and trees that give them life. I don't mean to sound so philosophical, really, but I think the comparison is a neat one to make.
Regardless, I truly believe they are beautiful things that should be appreciated by all. They offer us room to take a breath of fresh air, where the only deadline is the setting of the sun and success is not measured by the width of one's wallet but by the content of their character. Yes, the mountains are many things. But most importantly, they are my home.
1."There's a sunrise and a sunset every single day, and they're absolutely free. Don't miss so many of them." - Jo Walton
2."Not all those who wander are lost." - J.R.R. Tolkien
3."All good things are wild and free." - Henry David Thoreau
