April 10, 2010
Cataract Falls, Mt. Tam Team in Training Hike
What a beautiful place in our own backyard. I have traveled abroad numerous times to experience various waterfalls and monuments including Victoria Falls , places in Hawaii, Ecuador, etc. Sometimes it’s an awakening to know that the beauty I have sought in other places is right here in the place that I call home. I don’t have to fly or save for it. It’s accessible right here and just a simple drive away. No admission fees or passports or visas needed. There may be rugged parts of the terrain that challenge me but with a little self patience and physical navigating I can witness the beauty in my backyard.
I continue to absorb lessons along the way. Each week I experience some level of anxiety and trepidation wondering if I’ll be able to complete the hike … if it will be more than I can handle? I start mentally preparing days before worried about the terrain, about my fitness level, about the length of the hike, and then the day arrives. I get out there with the rest of the team and slow and steady I go. I make it. Tired but feeling accomplished. Often I’m in amazement as I look at the inclines and stairs and steep terrain I have traveled and say to myself “Wow…you did it… Didn’t know I had it in me”. Totally a metaphor for my life. I didn’t know I had it in me. I get to discover new things about myself, my fortitude, my drive, my desire to finish what I have started. I recognize that the hike nor my life is a race. It’s my personal best…. personal effort, personal sense of accomplishment and achievements and goals that speak to me. It doesn’t matter that it’s a pretty finish… Did I finish? Yes I did!!! I may come in last; but who said the time was being measured. I see such beauty when I just let go and stay present in the moment. When I just let go and breath and take in the majesty and magnificence the creation around me. This is a moment that let’s me know that quality of life is so much more important, so much more enriching than chasing things.
