For the past several weeks, I’ve kept reminding myself of all the reasons that my dreams are worth fighting for. Every once in a while, however, finding the strength necessary to keep fighting seems impossible. I guess this is how the universe reminds me that I am merely human and it is okay to feel drained.

Last month, I went for a drive through Squaw Pass. The colors were at their peak and everywhere I looked the process of change exposed itself to me. I witnessed aspen trees in all their stages. Some were gold, some were orange, others were red or completely bare. A few of them were still vibrant green.

After a moment of feeling hypnotized by the colorful forests, I thought about my favorite autumn drives. These drives are also spectacular in the wintertime. Slumgullion Pass, Alpine Plateau Road, Vail Pass, Peak to Peak Highway, Trail Ridge Road, and Guanella Pass all bounced around in my memory banks.

I began to make a mental list of the scenic drives I would like to experience within the next year. With 26 scenic byways and a handful of other beautiful hidden roads to choose from, I had a difficult time making up my mind. Pike’s Peak Highway, the Million Dollar Highway, Top of the Rockies, and the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway all made my list.

Considering how remarkable our state is, I’m certain that many more will make my list. As the weather turned from bright colors to wind and snowfall, I found myself accepting that everything in life is in a constant state of transformation. It’s the process that helps us learn, grow and evolve into better versions of ourselves.

While admiring this season’s long-lasting colorful foliage, inspiration broke through my slight melancholia and I came to a much-needed realization. Just as leaves fall and wither on the ground, I, too, need to fall apart before I can bloom again.

I observed a lot while on my drive between Idaho Springs and Evergreen. When all hope seems lost, the Colorado wilderness has a way of reminding me that there is always a probability of hope with a 100% chance of beautiful change.

To find out more about Colorado scenic drives visit: https://www.codot. gov/travel/colorado-byways.