Kelley Calvin Reflection on Landscapes of the Sacred #2

Mythic Landscapes: The Mountain That Was God

Lane explains how the Mountain That Was God, how he referred to Mt. Rainier, was actually named Tahoma by the Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest. Once again, this is an example of Europeans disregarding Native American customs and changing the names of natural wonders to white-washed propaganda. This mountain, despite its name looks high above everything in its vicinity. At 14,408 feet, Tahoma looms over the Puget Sound. 

Lane, along with a group of others, are visiting the mountain. They approach it from the Northeast but they take their time getting there. As they gain elevation, their air and "space becomes telescoped and intensified". The mere presence of getting closer is affecting these travelers. Once they arrive at the mountain and when they are getting ready to leave, the mountain they entered "was reluctant to let them go". The force and power of the mountain was making it hard for these explorers to leave. 

Later on, Lane goes to discuss how the mountain gave him something he can never return. He wanted to give thanks to this wonderful place he had entered and explored. He wanted to give back to this natural wonder he had been allowed into. However, Lane "had nothing to leave-nothing of value to give back in thankfulness for what had received". This concept is quite common when people visit nature-oriented places. When hiking the mountains of the Shenandoah, I am always thankful for what the mountains gave me but, like Lane, I am never able to return the favor.