As you walk through the airport and toward your gate, you think back on all the strange things that you witnessed in your time in the mountains, as well as all of the good things. It seems to you like you've lived more in the last couple days than you have in years.

The image of your city apartment comes to your mind as you hand the airline worker your ticket and walk onto the plane. As the plane lifts off the ground, you look out at the beautiful view of the mountains and allow yourself to feel some small amount of regret.

There were so many things you could have seen or done. All those paths left unwalked, and the people you met who could have been so much more than what they were. But there was also danger in the mountains, and part of you knows that danger is what makes the mountains so thrilling. What's life without a little adventure?

Whatever else happens when you return home, you know that the Smokies will be in your mind from now on, calling for you to come back and witness the majesty that is nature.

**********

[END]

Ending Achieved: The Mountains are Calling