He's a young man, accompanied probably by his mother and grandmother, a pure delight. Asking about various trails to hike, we end up talking about climbing the Grand. He's surprised that particular hike is on my bucket list. Not fond of heights, he's not convinced this would be a good hike for him. I don't like heights either, but there's something about the height of mountains that doesn't scare me. I've not panicked yet.
Reasons for me wanting to climb the Grand are numerous—the views, the challenge (I want my kids and grandkids to know if I can do anything I set my mind to, they are quite capable, as well, regardless of age, fear, experience. Conquering fear of distance, height, open spaces, all of these motivate me to get out, take the mountains one step at a time. I want my family, and every person I meet, to live, experience life, don't wait. There's so much life to live, adventures to explore.
So, I basically share this with Austin. Don't let fear ever rule your life. Heights are a mind game. You are obviously in good physical condition, you hiked Holly Lake, now choose another, a little more difficult. Then, tackle the Grand.
The mind tricks us, tries to make us think we can't: life is too hard, we can't conquer heights, fears, we're weak, we're alone. Fight for truth, our minds are our battlefield, teach the mind. It's not our legs that are tired, or even our weary lungs. It's our mind telling us we can't, telling us to quit, give up. Lies, all lies.
I'll help you, you help me.
We can. We should.
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