Faith can reclaim deserts as well as move mountains

Faith can reclaim deserts as well as move mountains

Wallace Stegner, a renowned American writer and environmentalist, often explored themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of the human spirit in his works. One of his most famous quotes, "Faith can reclaim deserts as well as move mountains," encapsulates the idea that belief in oneself and in a higher power can lead to incredible feats of transformation and change.

In the context of Wallace Stegner's own life and work, this quote takes on a deeper meaning. Stegner was a passionate advocate for the preservation of the American West and its natural landscapes. He believed that through faith in the land and in the power of community, it was possible to reclaim and restore even the most desolate and degraded environments.

Stegner's novel "Angle of Repose" is a prime example of his belief in the transformative power of faith. The protagonist, Lyman Ward, grapples with personal and environmental challenges as he seeks to understand his family's history and the changing landscape of the American West. Through his journey, Ward learns that faith in oneself and in the land can lead to healing and renewal, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Stegner's own life was a testament to the idea that faith can indeed move mountains. As a writer and environmentalist, he dedicated himself to preserving the natural beauty of the West and advocating for sustainable practices that would ensure its protection for future generations. His work inspired countless others to take up the cause of conservation and to believe in the power of faith to bring about positive change.