48.11 Arizona: Tonto National Forest: A Special tribute (Mike Nickols), with natural beauty thrown into the mix. (FR647)

Four Peaks Wilderness, takes the breath away...probably the climb actually.

Each day, we face nature and invariably confront some of the most beautiful and amazing scenes. We've often mentioned that each differs from the previous, sometimes subtlety, but most times, bluntly. How is it possible that the world is covered in treasures and yet we've only discovered a tiny amount? Combine it with the physical efforts, often mental exercise too, and we believe we live in an incredible space and place. Yet, nature itself is neutral. It is neither good nor bad. It does what it's programmed to do. 

What's missing from nature's formula? An attribute which we'll call kindness. In a recent blog, we dealt with our opinion of human behavior. We have often expressed the view that a potential attribute of man, perhaps the only reason we have survived until now, is that of the concept of kindness shown to a stranger. Is there anything more beautiful, more meaningful, than one human assisting another, both unknown to each other and for which no benefit is expected? We have always believed as long as there are a few kind people in the world, it will continue to exist.

Today, we took a long hike, some 8 miles, rising close to 3,000 feet in a beautiful part of the world, across the way from Roosevelt Lake. When we were returning, perhaps with 3 miles still to go, we met Mike Nickols who had driven to the meeting point in his buggy. Earlier we had noticed his buggy parked close to where we ended our outgoing leg. We also spoke with Steve and Jim who were riding a buggy on these rough roads in the mountains. They were the only people we saw on the day. Mike had noticed us eating brunch on the peak and later, wondered where 'our buggy' was. He thought we may have been lost. 

He returned to the trail to search for us. Of course, we were not lost but he thought otherwise. Here was a stranger, worrying that two people might be lost in the wilderness, returning in his buggy over rough roads to search and offer help. We consider that a righteous deed, indeed. Thank you, Mike. You epitomize the concept of human kindness. 

Later, after returning to our car, we stopped by the temporary residence of Pam and Mike for a brief chat. Delightful.

This was our 4th hike in a row at 'the lake district' and each one was superb. We highlight a few photographs until a more formal blog is produced.

Jen arriving at our peak.

Mesmerized...for a change.

Looks so close and yet so far.

A subtle exposure to Roosevelt Lake.

We've been spoiled this past few months with exposure to Lakes Powell, Mead and now Roosevelt.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

'Thank you, Mike.'