The view from the tallest peak in the Himalayan foothills outside Mussoorie, India, was breathtaking. The entire eastern horizon was white with the snow-capped mountains. The views to the north, west and south were a combination of jagged rocks, tree-covered slopes, deep ravines and gray haze. Draped between the highest peak and a secondary peak fifty feet away were Hindi prayer flags in red and yellow.
I stood for the several minutes just looking at this incredible vista, letting thoughts and feelings flow through my mind and heart. I felt satisfied that I had accomplished my goal of coming to India and seeing the Himalayan Mountains. I felt absolutely insignificant compared to the grandeur of this site. I felt so re-connected to Janell's family through my growing love for Brian and Biba, my hosts and my guides through this mystic country. I thought about the past year and what a blur it has been, and about the future that seems so pointless.
Then on a whim I stepped down off the boulder and sat next to a flat rock. I began picking through the granite chips, to find just the ones I wanted. I spelled out Janell's initials and cried. I felt so close to her and at the same time so far away. I wanted to leave a sign that I was there and that SHE was there. I also felt like maybe I was leaving a part of us there. And I felt an easing of the weight from my shoulders and a sliver of peace.
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