Creation Covenant Alliance

Eternally Far Away

Illustration shows Sleeping Ute Mountain through binocular lenses

Respecting the Sacred: Leaving Some Places to the Imagination

From a vantage point in the piñon-juniper woodland near Cortez, Colorado, Sleeping Ute Mountain appears as a series of peaks. Locals liken its topography to a chief lying on his back—its highest summit resembling a head pointing skyward, with the lower peaks mimicking arms crossed over the chest. However, despite its inviting allure, this mountain is a place I will never tread. [Managed by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe](https://www.utemountainutetribe.com/images/THPO%20information/UMTU%20CRMP.pdf), Sleeping Ute Mountain is sacred and access is largely restricted to nontribal members.

The mindset in the American West is often one of entitlement to our public lands, thanks to environmentally-conscious ancestors who chose to create national parks and forests rather than divide the land into private homes and cities. It is uncommon for us to be told something is off-limits. We resist No Trespassing signs and private property hindering our access to public lands where we bike, hike, and camp.

While it’s evident that a mountain could benefit from being largely inaccessible, the personal benefit of such restrictions is less obvious. Often, places we cannot reach become the most powerful in our imagination. There is a need to remember that there are things we cannot see or touch that still shape our lives. We need to exercise our imagination, practice humility, and accept that there are some mountains we will never climb.

As someone who moved to Ute lands from elsewhere, I often find myself reflecting on [Rebecca Solnit’s description of the particular shade of blue](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/293600/a-field-guide-to-getting-lost-by-rebecca-solnit/) seen in distant horizons—she named it the color of desire. We may long to reach those far-off peaks, but once we get there, they’re more or less the same color as the place we left behind. Solnit proposes that we view desire not as a need to be fulfilled but as a feeling in itself, an itch that doesn’t necessitate scratching.

Attempting to climb Sleeping Ute won’t bring me closer to the elusive hue I seek. It would only turn the mountain into just another peak I’ve conquered. But as a mountain I can only admire from a distance, it becomes a symbol of all I can never fully understand or conquer—a reminder of the wisdom in stillness. Its inaccessibility only enhances its allure. We don’t need to visit every star in the night sky to appreciate their collective beauty and their contribution to the wholeness of our world.

Original Story at www.sierraclub.org

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024