In quiet moments I learn about Jesus and see his love pour into my life. One day while walking to campus in 2004 I looked up at the mountains and told my roommate, "We're going to climb that one and camp on the top!" He didn't pay much attention to my idea, and he was right-- the year became very busy and the trip was postponed. Last weekend I finally kept my promise as we packed up and headed to the top of Y mountain, the famous peak overlooking BYU.

After just a few hundred yards I wanted to turn around and camp in the parking lot. My heavy pack made me feel so out of shape, and the winding trail seemed to go on forever. We took many breaks, and I prayed constantly for the Lord to bless me with strength to keeping moving. The trail winded around the mountain and as the sun set we neared the summit. The hike was physically demanding and at one point I fell on the trail with terrible cramps in my feet and legs. We didn't bring enough water, and I was obviously way out of shape! During one of these quiet moments I learned about Jesus Christ and his saving grace because life on earth is so much like climbing a mountain. As I struggle with fears about my future, doubts or inadequacies, his peace fills my heart. When past mistakes weighed me down with guilt and shame, his sweet forgiveness relieved my burdens. I love Jesus Christ because I know that he guides and blesses my life. He watches over me and blesses me with more than I ever deserve.

I didn't always feel so close to Christ. It came when I studied his word each day, prayed from my heart and took more time to help others. I made him my first priority, and I wondered why I felt so much more converted than the year before. The difference was my commitment to him, and I'm trying to maintain that commitment now as a busy student. I hoped I would feel closer to him on the hike. From the top of the mountain we saw thousands of little lights from the city below. It was so quiet up there, but sometimes we heard things from the city below. It was surreal to look down on the cities and all the busy little activities happening among the people. I felt so removed from the world, and I wondered how Christ feels as he sees my choices each day. As we travel through the ups and downs of life Christ is our best guide. My recent camping trip was just one of the many mountains he has helped me climb. I lo ve Jesus Christ. His hands reach out to save me over and over again.