Where all is Enough

As the road runs along the side of the mountain, it gains elevation, and the world behind disappears into a valley of buildings, fog, and distant coast. The temperature decreases, and the surroundings become natural and wild. Across the deep valley, the same road can be seen passing through mirroring clusters of towns, all marked by the steeples of their churches.

Occasionally, another vehicle passes by and disappears into a village's side road. One could perhaps say there are many regions in the world that have this appearance, but I have yet to experience one similar in feeling and experience. It's as if the world beyond these walls of rock and forest is no longer relevant. It is as if, even though geographically connected, there is no connection.

And as I rise to the summit, overlooking this rugged terrain and the treeless heights yet to be covered in snow, I become aware that this is a unique point in reality. A place not discovered or discussed by the world beyond these walls of rock. And it's a privilege to be on a path less discovered.

For beyond these walls, there are many discovered places, many rattled bushes, endless chatter and noise, and the praise of endless beauty and fascination, with hardly a place to stop or sit. And here, the chewing cow blankly looks at me as its bell sounds from her gentle movements, the birds chirping, and the distant echo of farms and village life.

Will it also one day become like beyond the walls? It hasn't in hundreds of years, and even those who do come seem to have different values than those who stay beyond. A desire to be part of what is, and not a desire to replace what is. A desire to be part of a less known, less visible paradise.

A secret garden of Eden. Where beyond luxury becomes simple living with simple wants and desires. A place where having is the default. Where wanting is met. Where all is enough.