If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you go? I always like asking people this question because it makes them imagine their happy place, or dream of a place they have always wanted to see. While I would like to be in Italy seeing the Trevi Fountain, or in Paris eating baguettes and pastries like some of my friends, I always answer with the same place every time: Rocky Mountains, Colorado.
For almost my whole life, I have visited Colorado frequently because my mom’s sister and her family live there. At a young age, Colorado meant going on a dreaded 16-hour car ride and drinking tons of water to stay hydrated due to the altitude change. I always complained about the frequent symptoms of altitude sickness, but despite everything, once I got to Colorado and saw the mountains I felt home.
Whenever I am in Colorado and get to see and be in the mountains, I feel a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders -- like all of my worries in life are gone and I can just focus on the stunning view in front of me. I could stare at the mountains and the breathtaking view all day, for it still amazes me how something so beautiful could naturally exist. The soaring heights of the mountains, the abundant amount of trees tall and short, and the visual flow of the rocks, water and flowers creates such a beautiful picture that I could never put a price on. When I am in my happy place, all I have to do is step outside and instantly feel at peace.
However, being in Colorado also reminds me that life, with all of its miracles and wonders, also comes with heartbreak. Colorado, to me, is more than a pretty picture; it is a story of life. While I smile at the beauties of the land, I also mourn the lives lost who also held connections to this special place. I think of my baby cousin Nathan, who lived in Colorado and lost his life way too soon. I think of Sam, and how much he loved this place just as much as me. I even think about the seizure I had there when I was 8 and the panic it still sometimes gives me. It is because of these people and the memories I hold that make Colorado and the mountains even closer to my heart. I am reminded of the hardships of life and the unfair turn of events that no one ever deserves. While the mountains bring me grief and make me think a lot about the fragility of life, the calm and natural beauty of the land also helps me heal and to remember that each day I am able to wake up and see the mountains is a blessing.
Life is about cherishing those special, irreplaceable moments like looking at the mountains, but also taking life for its imperfections and difficulties. I’ve always considered Colorado my little heaven on earth because it is there I feel most complete. Nothing can ever compare to how I feel when I am captured by the aroma of pure fresh air, or when I feel the sun gleaming on my neck and the earth possessing almost all of my senses. Climbing up those mountains and looking out over the spectacular view helps me reconnect with my life and realize everything and more I have to be grateful for. I can think, remember, grieve, smile, explore and be thankful that I am alive and able to enjoy the view for those I know would appreciate it just as much as me.
