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Journeys, Destinations, And Getting Present
My imagination doesn't operate in reality. Here's what helps me anyway.
Matt Zeigler
November 03, 2025
As the year end review and next year planning cycle comes roaring onto a calendar near you, it’s good to find some quotes to help you stay present.
Or, at least, I need some quotes to not be obsessed with how little got done this year and just how to fit all the things I want to do into next year.
My imagination doesn’t operate in reality. It’s been known to be a touch unrealistic. Which is a feature and not a bug, but still.
My body, mind, and - the lives that make my life worth what it is, makes a realistic and present tense view all the more essential, however.
I came across this Harold V. Melchert idea in my notes while thinking about the paths we’re all on this season. I’m finding it helpful for looking forwards and backwards. Including remembering which mountains have been summitted, and picking what to climb next, without forgetting that I’m already on a journey (or six).
“Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. An occasional glance toward the summit keeps the goal in mind, but many beautiful scenes are to be observed from each new vantage point. Climb slowly; steadily, enjoying each passing moment; and the view from the summit will serve as a fitting climax for the journey.”
Melchert says to make the mountains as small as each day.
I think you can scale them out.
Either way, that reminder to glance around feels like everything to me.
The summit is a perfectly fine climax.
The hiking is the real joy.
Wherever this year-end cycle finds you, enjoy the walk.