His creation speaks for itself

In the past several years my love for the Adirondack Mountains has grown considerably. In the northeastern region of the Adirondack State Park there are 46 high peaks, each rising at least 4,000 feet above sea level. I have made it my goal to hike to the tops of these peaks. As I continue on this journey I seek to learn more about myself, nature and the one who made these majestic lands.

I have already gone several times to this wilderness area and I have found solitude and escape from the outside world. Basic needs such as food, water, and shelter are of the importance there. Life becomes simple in the mountains and in my opinion life is better when it is simplified. The minuet details of existence fade away in the beauty of high mountains, roaring rivers and quiet valleys.

Some question why I would want to climb all 46 peaks. It is not to gain the approval of other hikers, friends or family. It is a personal goal that I would like to prove to myself that I can do. Also it is to help me better appreciate the beauty of God’s astonishing creation. As I soak in what God has made I become closer to Him and I am more apt to acknowledge His lordship in my life.

Some take it a step farther and ask why I go to the woods in the first place. In my estimation there are many great lessons to be learned in the wilds. You can learn everything from basic survival skills to finding how far your body can take you. God teaches you to depend solely on Him as you push your body to the brink of exhaustion. Also, there are very little distractions in the woods. I have found that the only distraction is my own self. I simply can choose to ignore God and to follow my own course. It is difficult to ignore the presents of God because creation cries His name. It is hard to deny that there is a God when you are standing on top of one of the high peaks on clear sunny day. As you can see for miles you begin to realize that this artwork is not of man. The hands of God crafted the very mountains, rivers and valleys that you are gazing at. At that very moment you are captivated by the sites and sounds of nature. You are brought into the sanctuary of the King. The God of creation deserves our praise and adoration. His creation speaks for itself.

"Whenever we go to the mountains we find more then we seek"
John Muir

"The lands of the state, now owned or hereafter acquired, constituting the forest preserve as now fixed by law, shall be forever kept as wild forest lands. They shall not be leased, sold or exchanged, or be taken by any corporation, public or private, nor shall the timber thereon be sold, removed or destroyed."
New York State Constitution