Bell Pass Bonus - The Travels of Mary Anne and Steve

If God exists and you believe, you gain infinite happiness.
If God exists and you don’t believe, you risk infinite suffering.
If God doesn’t exist and you believe, you lose little.
If God doesn’t exist and you don’t believe, you gain little.
Blaise Pascal

Today was ideal for a moderately hard (7.5 miles, 1750’ elevation gain) hike. We like Bell Pass for the challenge and the rewarding views from the saddle. You’ve seen it before, but I thought a few more photos wouldn’t hurt.

The view to the west. We hiked up this valley.

The view to the east. Several interesting hikes are found in this direction.

Heading down after lunch. Can you spot our trail along the valley floor?

Did someone drop a slice of pumpkin pie beside the trail?

Now, about the thoughts of M. Pascal.

The quote is known as Pascal’s Wager and there are numerous criticisms. I’ll leave that to you. What got me thinking about it was an annoying interaction we had with a fellow hiker just as we started our lunch at the top of Bell Pass.

As I was unwrapping my snack bar, a man walked up and said, “Do you know Jesus?” Mary Anne said, “Who?” She had not understood his mumbling. I found her response priceless.

The guy seemed nice enough and, after I replied “Maybe” enough times to his dire assertions as to the fate of unbelievers, the conversation turned more appropriately to brands of hiking shoes, and the weather.

Let’s all do our part to preserve the separation between Church and Outdoor Activities.