The other day, while having lunch with a friend, this question came up. It was in reference to when we see a mountain looming before us. Often the mountain we see is enough to discourage us before we take a single step.
As I reflect upon this I think of all the mountains that I have experienced in my lifetime. Those that I have seen from a distance, those that I have flown over in an airplane, those that I have skied down, and those that I have created in my minds eye. Relationships, emotional burdens, physical limitations, my dreams, and my future may appear as mountains. Clearly the real mountains of rock, ice, and trees, although not easy to navigate, are beautiful, and can be appreciated as they exist. They can be admired from a distance, or close up, and they don't have to be conquered to be enjoyed.
However, this is not true with the mountains in our lives. These mountains, if left unchecked, can steal from us in ways that undermine our joy. The question, "Where do we start?" is real, and not easy to answer. We all will have a different perspective, that quite frankly, depends on our perspective. Some of us may be willing to leave those mountains alone. We may feel that there is just too much work that is involved. Some may feel that they don't have the energy and support that they need to successfully conquer them, or they may assume it is just too late.
Where do we start? We start by just starting! We surround ourselves with positive individuals who know how to support us and pray. Who want to see us successful in what we are doing, and who will be cheering us on. They will likely be people who have conquered their own mountains, and are willing to use those skills to help us do the same.
Luke 3:5 NIV Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth.