Day 18 - Mountains

When I was much younger, I read the Christian classic Hinds' Feet on High Places about the spiritual journey of the main character Much Afraid. The mountaintop is the ultimate destination. In the Hebrew Scriptures, on a mountain Moses first meets God and later receives the 10 commandments. The Qur'an is first revealed to Muhammad while meditating in a cave on Mount Hira. Various emanations of the Buddha live on mountains and many of the holiest monasteries are found on mountains today. The Himalayas are sacred to the Hindus. Throughout the world, mountains are profound places of transformation, enlightenment, and encounter with the divine.

The Sacred Valley in Peru is formed by a ring of mountains. The indigenous people of this area have always fostered a deep connection with these mountain beings. Known as Apus, mountain spirits are venerated as powerful protectors. The Inca believed that when we are each born, in addition to the parents that raise us, we also have a personal Apu to watch over and guide us throughout life. Whether or not you believe in Apus, spirits, guardian angels or ancestors, I find it comforting to consider the possibility that we have unseen allies on earth and in the cosmos, who care about us and are looking out for our welfare. Go for a walk today, explore nature, hike a mountain and you just might discover a new companion.

Practice Options

• Spend time in nature, whether it be a hill or a mountain. Be open to encountering awe and wonder. Listen for the message your heart most needs to hear.

• Listen to my Inner Mountain Meditation (7 minutes).

• Read Hinds' Feet on High Places or any other spiritual classic.

• Offer a prayer of thanksgiving to your guardian angel, Apus, ancestors, higher self or other spiritual allies.