And in these two climbs I have learned many lessons but none stand out more than what the title of this blog post says.... Respect the Mountain, Cherish the Friendships.
Mountain climbing is no joke. It pushes your limits. And if you don't take it seriously, you're going to be in a world of hurt!
I trained and trained for both of my climbs, and in neither case was I able to summit. My first mountain I wasn't "in the game" mentally and that's why I did not complete the climb. This past weekend I did "stay in the game" mentally and my determination to climb to the summit was definitely the driving force of my strength. But alas, once again I didn't make it to the summit.
The difference this year is that whether I made it to the very top of the mountain or not, I was okay. It no longer became about the mountain for me. It became about the bonds that were formed with each and every single person I walked along side of, in front of, and behind up as far as we were able to go and then down again.
I learned so much about myself this climb. And I learned that I have such an appreciation for the human spirit. Each of us participated in the Climb for different reasons, but in the end, the strength that drew us each to the mountain also carried us along the path - together.
I will never look at a mountain the same way again. Not only is it something that deserves my respect, but also my appreciation for building friendships that have been life-changing for me.
No matter why I started out on this journey, I have ended with respect for the mountain and cherishing the friends that I have come to know.
Blessings!
(group photo by Colin Stapp)
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