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We spent the first ten days of August hiking in and around Yellowstone. We spent much of that time on ridge-lines and peaks. High places have an irresistible draw. They provide stunning views from the top of the world. They may be carpeted by wildflowers. Sometimes they offer solitude. They are often cool and windy, creating their own weather.
High places are also challenging to reach. Narrow, steep, and often bumpy roads lead to muddy trails with tricky stream crossings. Mosquitoes, flies, and the images of grizzly bear haunt the approach. Aging quads burn with the climb and knees grumble as they descend. More than once, a question emerges...is it worth the effort? And the reply resounds: YES!
I love mountains. Growing up on the geologically ancient lakebed of Indianapolis, Indiana, I read tales of the West and begged my dad to take us there. When I was 11, we went to Colorado on vacation, and I never turned back. Mountain fever infected me then, as it has for so many others. I crave literal "peak experiences" and return for them again and again.
However, as the challenges increase with time I find it ever more important to engage the mountain one step at a time. On this trip, I was keenly aware that a destination on the horizon was a stretch. I hedged my goals with words like "try," "hope," and "attempt." Plan B became a bigger part of the mix. Time and again, I arrived at the top with a sense of wonder: How did I get here? One step at a time. I became more and more impressed with the progress that resulted from repeating small efforts. Going forward and ever upward. My spouse and buddy Lyle is great at going forward when I am ready to turn back. We did it together.
I love analogies, and this one is too rich to pass by. Peak experiences are extraordinary: They demand effort, are attainable by committing to many small steps, and are more likely to occur when a congenial buddy with similar goals is along for the climb.
I invite you to draw comparisons with your own wellness journey. What peaks do you want to "bag" in the next few months? What do they look like, in detail? What is the view from the top? Why do you crave the experience of reaching that peak, and doing it now? Are you committed, or are you hedging your bets with "ifs" and "maybes"? What are some small but decisive steps you will take today and tomorrow? Who will share the experience as your buddy?
Please remember to send photos from the trip.
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