The Mountains I Climb

I’m planning another trip to the Adirondacks and circumstances are already inviting me to rethink my plans. It occurs to me that I have never ever climbed a mountain without an unexpected moment that required me to adjust my thinking.

Every single time no matter how I’ve prepared or who I’m with, I’ve had to change my approach to reach my goal or redefine my goal to make the experience worthwhile.

Fourteen climbs and fourteen pivots.

Like, when the parking lot was jam-packed so I decided to just enjoy a smaller climb with beautiful views only to discover a back door to a high peak.

Or when it took me four times to scale the easiest peak because of weather and illness, but all the failed attempts gave me enough familiarity and confidence to do my first solo climb.

And turning back because a friend couldn’t make it up and deciding that the joy of spending the day with her and others was fulfilling enough - and really feeling grateful for the connection.

So many adjustments that require I remain flexible and open. Choosing different paths. Choosing different mountains. Choosing to keep going.

Climbing has taught me that staying unattached to how I think everything SHOULD be, allows me to enjoy outcomes beyond what I imagined. I’ve also learned there is joy - along with lessons - in failed attempts and repeated tries.

But most importantly, I’ve learned that how I choose to think about what I’m up to directly impacts any chance of success.

Life’s a series of mountains. I’m so thankful for each one.