Years ago I was in the original Whole Earth Provision Company store near the campus. It was my favorite place to shop. I came upon a framed story near the mountain climbing gear that told of an ancient people who lived in a valley surrounded by mountains.  Nobody in the village had ever seen over the top of the mountains to know what is on the other side, so, many stories were invented to tell by the campfires to explain what was on the other side. One such story has evolved over time into what is now called religion. Another story has evolved into what is called science. These hypothetical stories continue to grow false explanations of the unknown regions beyond the valley.

However, one day a brave lad did climb to the top of a peak and looked over.  When he came back he told what he saw and though he still lived in the valley for the remainder of his life he always remembered what lies on the other side. The others failed to understand him. The story concluded that once you have seen the other side you will never forget and will know what is there. I knew the author was really writing about meditation, not mountain climbing. You never have to pretend you do not know what the trees have to say.  You can live by that knowledge at all times in every decision. In truth you can live the meaning of the saying that "You never have to make another decision in your life if you decide to see the other side of the mountain for yourself.” Even though few people do, you can.