Mountain Goat Encounter

It was the first sun-blazing, rainless day that we have had for about a week. I have been hiking in spite of the rain but today was a special treat. My hike started out rather stressful. The parking lot was full and so I was worried that there would be a lot of people on the top and that would limit my pleasure. As I scrambled to the top I met several hikers on their way down and my hope that my mountain top meditation would not only be possible, but pleasant after all. The top was deserted and I felt a huge relief. I sat in my usual spot where I can see the cathedral spires clearly. The sun was on my back and there was a sweet breeze that cooled me after the workout of the ascent. I was saying my usual prayers of gratitude and sending strength out to those I know are struggling. I then did some journaling, and was enjoying the beauty of the Black Hills. I took a long drink from the fresh well water I had packed up, when out of the corner of my eye I saw the Mountain Goat. He was climbing the very path that I had used to reach the summit. He stopped and noticed me a couple of times and it appeared he was curious to see if I had sure feet. I was delighted and terrified at the same time. (Mountain Goats have pointy horns.)

The goat and I hung out on the top about 40 minutes. He would wander closer and then move away. He did not appear afraid, but perhaps curious and terrified at the same time. We both let the curiosity win.

Ultimately some dumb loud and very obnoxious tourists interrupted our encounter. The goat and I watched them clamber about for several minutes. We realized that they were so unaware of where they were that they were missing an opportunity to meet the goat. We both looked at the people with the same curiosity and contempt. I said my goodbyes to the Mountain Goat and started finding my way down. He climbed to the place I had been sitting and watched my descent. I am sure that I was being blessed at that moment.