August 15, 2026
This photo is near Creede, CO, a former mining town. What do you feel when you see it? That depends on your perspective. Pretty picture? Available land in the valley? Maybe a place to preserve trees or to harvest them? A place to hunt elk, trout fish in the Rio Grande, rock climb, maybe hunt for mineral specimens? It’s certainly an area rich in history, with colorful Wild-West characters, Native Americans, early railroads, fur trappers. Yes, all of these may appeal to your thoughts, whet your appetite to explore there. It is, after all, a tourist area until normally heavy winter snow mostly closes Creede.
I could be caught up in its geologic history; a giant volcano that erupted so much that it collapsed into its emptied magma chamber. Then sent hot, copper-bearing fluids up to lace its shattered cracks with ore. But to me, it speaks of serenity, quietness, and the sweet, clean air at 10,000 feet. Of ravens soaring in pairs amid the cliffs. Of respite from daily concerns, intrusive news, traffic, and the press of modern society. Dogs and children roam Creede’s main street. Tourists shelter under storefront eaves when afternoon showers pour. Ah, this is what I think when I look at this photo. God’s wonderful blessings.
The peak is merely a mountain among many others. But so much more than just a rocky eminence. For those of us who need a reminder of nature’s wonders, go find a mountain, or a forest, or a running stream. Savor the quiet rhythms of nature beyond the city. Look at clouds, trees swaying. Listen to leaves rustling and the hush of a quiet place. Close your eyes and just be. What a gift to exist in such a beautiful world. Be thankful for it, as I am.
