Here I am, perched on the precipice of discomfort and exhilaration. Nestled at an altitude of 2980 meters above sea level. The wind is howling relentlessly, much like the turbulent life storms that blow us off course. It’s a moment that transforms “bucket list” item into a sweet symphony of “living life to the fullest.”
The Correlation Between Ascent and Existence
It’s often said that life teaches us how to live. Think about it: as an infant, you couldn’t even walk. But you didn’t stop at just walking; you embarked on the incredible journey of talking the walk. With each step you took, challenges kept coming. But you never gave up, instead, you evolved in your ability to navigate them.
The initial leg of this journey was undoubtedly the most challenging. The Zig Zags mirrored life’s twists and turns. Writing this, I can’t help but marvel at the correlation between living and something as simple as climbing mountains.
Also read: Passionate Excellence – A Hiker’s Journey
Chain Ladders: Choosing Our Fate
A pivotal moment was the encounter with the Chain Ladders. A daunting challenge offering two paths. A shorter, heart-pounding route filled with life-altering experiences. The second option is the longer route – less dangerous and exciting.
Life too, offers such choices and we get to decide our fate. We can all agree that decisions are pretty hard to make. Whether it’s choosing water over coffee, left over right, or any of the myriad decisions we make daily. Although they’re never abc, they are the sole means by which we can advance.
The Chain Ladders, unlike life’s decisions, offer no harness, no safety nets. Once you begin the ascent, there’s no turning back. You’re committed, for better or worse, to carry yourself to the summit. Even if you’re struck by doubt or regret, there’s no escape from the path you’ve chosen. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of commitment to the choices we make.
Seasons: Embracing Life’s Ebb and Flow
The beauty of life lies in its unpredictability, in its undulating rhythm. Just as nature’s grandeur, the ebbs and flows of existence can bring us to our knees or lift us to our zenith.
Lovejoy Mlaba, realtime thoughts, trekking up Amphitheater, October 2023.
In life, we’re bound to encounter seasons of both abundance and scarcity. My heart sank at the sight of a barren waterfall. A soulless expanse of bleakness, as if the very essence of its being has been torn asunder. A harsh reminder that no matter how majestic or extraordinary we may be, there are moments we feel dry and murky. If it’s not our season to bloom, we may find ourselves in the shadow of our own potential.
It is especially during these times, that we must hold fast to the belief that rain will come. That it will nurture us, and we will bloom into our glory.
Life’s Simple Truth
We might not always understand the why and the how, but as we ascend, we catch breathtaking glimpses of the beauty and wonder that surround us.
Lovejoy Mlaba, realtime thoughts, resting 2980m above sea level, October 2023.
As I lie in my tent, buffeted by the relentless wind, I am reminded of a simple truth: Life is pretty good. The wind may howl, the tent may sway, but I’m content in the knowledge that the climb was worth every moment of discomfort.
It’s in these moments, in the embrace of discomfort and uncertainty, that we truly learn what it means to be alive.
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Not me questioning my life choices while reading this. Thank you for the chance to reflect on life with optimism that it will get better (rain) one day ✨