Normally the strong headwind I encountered while bicycling to work would have really frustrated me. However,this morning I reveled in it, like a dog sticking his nose out the window of a car at high speed. Given the incredibly emotional news from the tragedy in Connecticut, I embraced the cleansing breath of the powerful southern wind that was ushering the next blast of powder to my beloved Wasatch Mountains.

The mountains covered in fresh powder are cathartic for me. The stress, worries both petty and great, melt away as I witness the fresh snow that covers the forest and slopes in a comforting and beautiful white blanket. The emotional weight of this week’s tragedy begins to lift as I weave my way through the aspens and up the slope in the lightly falling snow….

While we all mourn the tragic loss of those innocent souls, it is that much more important to, breathe in deep and take in the beauty that surrounds us.