But it was more than life that was given to us; each of us came down from the mountain with a new way of thinking, a deeper appreciation for the power of the human spirit, and a profound understanding of what a wonder it is—for us, for anyone—to be alive. The ability to be truly alive and aware, to savor each moment of life with presence and gratitude, this is the gift the Andes gave us. A stranger may not notice the special warmth with which my friends embrace their wives, or the tenderness with which they caress their children, but I do, because like them I know these things are marvels.
