As we arrived in Lucerne, I saw a building advertising pilates. I gave it little thought because we have been walking more in one day than we have during our entire marriage. I couldn’t stop wondering, however, why the Swiss spell pilates with a capital P and a “u” (Pilatus).

I was soon to realize Mt. Pilatus and pilates could not be more different. Mt. Pilatus rises 7000 ft. and overlooks Lucerne, and pilates is often done too close to the ground to overlook anything.

To see Pilatus for ourselves, we chose the “Golden Circle” tour. This series of various modes of transportation could only be conceived in a country that values precision. Just like clockwork, we boarded a bus which took us to our gondola. 7000 feet later, we were at the top of the peak.  After lunch and more viewing, we took a cogwheel train ride (longest in the world, 50% decline the entire way) to the base.  We soon located our luxury boat for a ride back to a dock near our hotel.

I had always known that the Alps existed. However, being up close and personal to those strong and trusting peaks, I find myself becoming a little stronger and more trusting. They set such a good example as they stand tall, accepting extreme cold, fierce winds, animals that walk upon them, a complete lack of privacy…and all of this…in complete silence. They look down at the crowded valleys below.

They have seen those valley floors gradually change from a carpet of green with sprinkles of untended gardens to a cluttered collection of chaotic human movement.

Majestic mountains are heroic symbols waiting to be discovered. I often find myself looking down instead of up, however. When my eyes take me to the heavens, they are there. Do I see them then? They rise high, daring me to look at them, and they present themselves as a vision to protect within my heart. They will remind me to be more patient, less judgmental, more present.

I walk back to the hotel changed, almost floating, and so desperately wanting to stay this way forever.

Ascending by Gondola

Reaching the Peak

Having Fun at the Top

Descent by Cogwheel Train

Boat Ride Back