Martha’s photo of Mt. Rainier taken on August 13, 2011

Martha Marino is one of my dearest friends, as well as a frequent contributor to Five More Minutes with in both stories and photos.

Here are her thoughts on finding solace–and time for reflection–atop one of the Northwest’s, indeed the world’s, most majestic peaks.

“Since 1996, I have spent the second weekend in August in a solitary retreat on Mt Rainier.

“Its majesty, steadiness, and ever-changing beauty serve truly as my ‘rock.’

“Countless others have found Mt Rainier a spiritual place, and that’s true for me, too.

“It’s my backdrop for grounding, reflection, and finding a path in each coming year for a more purposeful and joyful life.”