Ripples #651: Climbing Life!

Ripples #651: Climbing Life.
For our tribe of 29,979 busy people who share encouragement and gratitude.
11/14/2011

PEBBLE:
Don't worry so much about the rough times.
Just remember, you could never reach
the top of a mountain
if the sides were smooth.
-unknown, submitted by Samantha in Oklahoma

BOULDER:
Live your life each day
as you would climb a mountain.
An occasional glance toward the summit
keeps the goal in mind,
but many beautiful scenes
are to be observed
from each new vantage point.
Climb slowly, steadily,
enjoying each passing moment;
and the view from the summit
will serve as a fitting climax for the journey.
-Harold V. Melchert, submitted by Katie in Kohler, WI

PONDER:
This week I journeyed west in my smile-covered Ripples car to hang out with some of the peppiest people on the planet that descended on Laramie, Wyoming for a gathering of residence hall leaders. IACURH was as fun and frenetic as I hoped (nice hosting, U. of Wyoming!).

While we were out west exploring the rocky challenges of leadership and life, back east my friends Ron and Denise unleashed a faculty flashmob to jumpstart conversations about the challenges of "fitting in" on campus. I'm so proud that these professors were brave enough to release their inhibitions and reveal their humanity in order to demonstrate just how much they care about the significant "uphill climbs" that some members of their campus community face.

I hope your climb through life includes enough challenge to help you grow, and enough comfort to keep you sane.

Peace,
Paul