Sight & Sense

Here is a section of the cross country route up to Ontario Peak. With a number of observations to read what the mountain says. It speaks to you if you listen. If you observe with humility. This gentle ridge to the summit gives a way to read the force of wind from West to East. Look at the shape of the branches on the worn trees. One side of the ridge was consumed by fire, the other side was defended or survived. Strong winds contribute to the erosion and shape of the Western slope. There isn’t much undergrowth at this elevation at about 8,700 feet. Arid exposure damage on one side with a lower thermal gradient on the other. What the wilderness says is what it is willing to speak to anyone who would listen. Visual observation and by what you feel, hear, smell, and touch. The more you abide in its presence, the more it changes you.


About James Austin

☩ U.S. military veteran and electrical engineer with experience in technical management, an MBA from Pepperdine University, and an M.A. in Theological Studies. My background extends to wilderness exploration, over 140 mountain summits from walk-ups to technical ascents, and travel throughout Europe and the Americas. This site reflects my continuing engagement with scripture, theology, literature, and advanced electronics.

, , ,

Comments are closed.