I took a hike a few days ago, to getaway. I climbed the mountain slowly, breathing in the smell of pine. I looked up at the skies and I realized how joyous the moment was. In that moment I had no worries, no tasks at hand other then putting one foot in front of the other and admiring the beauty that surrounds us if only we stoped to appreciate more often. Our lives are busy, loud and incredibly meaningless if we cannot see the importance of taking some things slow. Next time you hear someone laugh, truly listen. Next time you take a walk learn to appreciate the sound of the trees swaying in the wind. Next time you go out in nature put the phone or the camara down and live in the moment. That is what makes life beautiful.