Expert skiers ride the lifts so they can tear down the mountain, bouncing over moguls or winding through trees. In contrast, often I ski down in order to take the lift back up.Skiing takes intense concentration and physical exertion, and the lift offers an opportunity to mentally and physically rela x. It is a gentle amusement park ride, a lateral/vertical Ferris wheel. The purring rumble and soft vibrations, sharp stinging air, and vast vistas through the trees are a moving meditation. This is a story of acceptance.I was encouraged to write this essay by a friend one night. “You’re not the only one out there,” although living in a ski town it may feel that way sometimes. For years I pushed myself too hard, my goggles filled with tears at the end of certain runs. Or sometimes in the middle. But changing my frame of mind and accepting that going slow, staying comfortable, is OK shifted my thinking.This is a story of gratitude. Grateful that as I age my body is still able to do this type of physical activity. Grateful for the push to stay fit and active off the slopes. I have never been athletic, but ski conditioning is so important. Grateful for the time and financial ability to ski.While I appreciate the hissing softness of powder, I lack the strength or skill to seek out stashes like my “no friends on powder days” comrades. So I often ski solo, mostly content, but sometimes feeling a little lonely. It’s scary trying new runs, not wanting to get lost or, worse, in trouble.That’s not to say I have no interest in getting better. Working hard on and off the slopes, each year I improve. With better form and strength comes confidence and speed. The terrain opens up, and with that comes community on the mountain. I have a few friends at my level now, and if schedules align we have fun together, skiing a few hours to earn our apres.Today I saw someone paused at the top of a lift, peering hesitantly over the edge where several runs branch off in different directions. I recognized that look, and asked if they needed help. “Do you know the mountain well?” they asked. Well … depends. If you’re looking for the easiest route down, I’m your gal. That is my area of expertise. I proudly navigated them through my comfort zone of blue groomers to their destination. We exchanged numbers and will ski together again.In the meantime, you can find me relaxing on the lift, bar safely down, scouring the ground below for black boulders of moose and enjoying the sweet pine-scented air.Deborah AronsonPark CityThe post Ode to the lift appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less