Two Dogs on a Summit
A friend loves at all times. Proverbs 17:17 (NKJV)
This is Smith Rock and yes, there are trails to follow as well as rock climbing. It’s not all straight up! Some of the paths are more challenging than others but the view is well worth the muscle pain. Kathleen R. Ruckman (All God’s Creatures) discovers new meaning to man’s best friend after she spotted two dogs on a summit.
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Smith Rock is one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, its cliffs overlooking the Crooked River. From the walking bridge, where hikers and climbers start out, its elevation reaches 600 feet. The sheer cliffs are ideal for rock-climbing enthusiasts. The crags, spires, and gorges are breathtaking for any observer, but watching rock climbers scale the heights always takes my breath away.
On a short hike at Smith Rock, at the parking lot level, my husband Tom, and I noticed two small figures on top of the summit. I couldn’t imagine how hikers could get up that high, with rock climbers just below them using ropes and spikes to ascend. Then, to my surprise, we watched two tiny forms frolicking and realized they were the hikers’ dogs alongside them!
“How on earth did they get up there—with their dogs?” I asked Tom.
“They have to take Misery Ridge Trail, where dogs are allowed on leashes,” To explained. “The climb is long and steep with switchbacks. It winds around the back side going up an the frontside coming down, like a loop. When hikers reach the summit, which is a few blocks square, they can walk there and enjoy the view—3,300 feet above sea level.”
I later pondered how a dog is called man’s best friend. It’s no wonder—dogs are loyal and caring as they walk alongside us on sunny, joyful paths of life, as well as when we trek paths of hardship, even misery. They sense when we are hurting and when to celebrate with us on the summits of life, where the “view” and new perspective is worth the climb.
I discovered a premise at Smith Rock that day. Sometimes, on our own personal “misery trail,” we need a companion—someone to walk alongside us to encourage us, a friend who is a partner or a family member who shows they care. Sometimes, that companion is a four-footed furry friend—as they are gifts from God too.
Dear Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, who always walks alongside us—and for friends on earth, too, who walk by our side. AMEN.