For the last week I’ve woken up to the beautiful view of green grass, fruit trees and a mountainous horizon that takes my breath away every time I lay eyes on it.
I had a conversation with my Mom the other day about how my travels have enhanced my love for and fascination with clouds, water, and mountains. I just feel a sense of calm come over me that I cannot explain. Being in Pai has added fuel to that fire of fascination.
The road from Chiang Mai to Pai has hundreds of twists and turns and for hours on end there seems to be no straight road in sight. Although the journey was challenging I had to try my best not to lose my cool despite the strenuous circumstances. I knew that if I held on a little longer than I would safely reach my destination.
Man, I just got a chill. Can you feel the symbolism in that? Let me take that a couple steps further.
I have plans to hike to the basecamp of one of the largest mountains in the world when I get to Nepal. I’ve read reviews that it’s a tough journey that some don’t and won’t complete. Also, that depending on the weather the view can leave much to be desired but I want to make the attempt anyway. After all, it would be the overall experience that would mean more to me than anything.
Being surrounded by mountains and having plans to conquer them no matter what is a direct reflection of what my life has been like. I’ve had some obstacles which were my real life mountains. The terrain was rocky and the path I chose to navigate wasn’t always the straightest or most perfect route but I climbed over them. There were curves, potholes, roadblocks and detours….masquerading as kind people, safe places, and interesting things but I made it through.
Sometimes things in life get tough and at times you can’t see an end in sight but the sweetest rewards come when you’ve faced those windy roads head on and have persevered in spite of.
I consider the opportunity to embark on this journey my reward. I had reached the top of a mountain after first making the courageous step toward facing and conquering my worst fears. It was one of the hardest things I had ever done but I was finally able to shout “Victory!” and actually mean it. That absolutely won’t be the last obstacle that I face in my life but I believe wholeheartedly that trials come so they might make you stronger.
I’m constantly reminded while traveling through third world countries that my situation could’ve been worse. We were never promised an easy road or a life without struggles but I’m a living witness that all the challenges that you will have to overcome in your life are so worth it when compared to the breathtaking view ahead.
I’m so thankful for every mountain!
WELL SAID!