view
The view of Shenandoah Valley in Virginia is spectacular as one travels along the interstate highway. Rolling green hills dotted often with red barns and cattle grazing in vast fields were illuminated by the radiant sunlight pouring through the crystal blue sky. The enormous mountains in the distance remind one that this beautiful place truly is in the valley. We traveled this route twice this weekend. The first journey through the valley was distracted by the anticipation of getting to our Pennsylvania mountain retreat through roads not traveled before. A safe arrival and inspiring weekend prepared us to be in a more thankful and peaceful mind as we journeyed back home. The valley had not changed, but our minds and emotions had been stimulated to a place of peaceful gratitude so that when in the midst of the valley we were in awe of its beauty like never before. Perhaps we learned a valuable lesson along this journey. The grandeur of one’s view is influenced by the state of mind and heart through which the view is filtered. One’s eyes may be the receptacle, but one’s heart and mind are the interpreters. A grateful heart is the best lens through which life is viewed!