Dear Children,
I’ve been mulling over your question about the most beautiful place I’ve ever visited, and I find myself torn between two very different places for very different reasons. One is Banff, Canada, for its sheer natural beauty, and the other is Israel, for its profound historical and spiritual significance. However, I’ll focus on Banff in this letter, as it’s a place that’s strikingly beautiful in a purely visual sense.
We were blessed to visit Banff as a family, a trip I won through Auto-Owners, and stayed at the Fairmont in the city of Banff. That journey allowed us to explore many places, from bus tours across the countryside to trails and a memorable gondola ride to the top of a nearby mountain. From that vantage point, capturing the Fairmont in the valley below, the rugged mountains and snow-capped peaks in August, it was absolutely breathtaking.
One of our adventures took us to Lake Louise, a stunning glacier lake. While most of us were content with the view from the restaurant, Zach, in typical fashion, decided to jump off a bridge into the icy waters, much to the shock of onlookers. One of my fondest memories, though, was the view from the gondola, overlooking our castle-like hotel, which seemed to belong to a different era altogether.
Reflecting on this trip brings a mix of emotions. I know Zach and Caleb might have seemed reluctant at the time, and Alexis, you were so young at just eight years old, it’s hard to know how much you remember. Yet, through photos and stories, that time remains a cherished memory for all of us, a snapshot of us looking much younger and a reminder of how quickly time passes.
Banff’s mountains, I learned, aren’t the tallest in the Rockies, but it’s the depth of its valleys that set it apart, making the elevation change the most dramatic in the range. This contrast between the heights and the lush, green valleys contributes to its unique beauty. It’s an analogy that resonates deeply with me. Just like the mountains of Banff, life’s beauty doesn’t come from its peaks alone but from the depth of its valleys. It’s through experiencing both the highs and lows, taking stock of them, that we truly appreciate the wonder of the life God has given us.
So, my dear children, the lesson here is not to avoid or forget our valleys but to cherish and learn from them. Embrace life’s entirety, for it’s the journey through both valleys and peaks that enriches our experience, showing us the true beauty and wonder of God’s creation. In our weakest moments, remember, that’s when Christ’s strength shines through, guiding us through every valley and atop every peak.
With all my love,
Dad
