Meditation Day 37 – 1 with group during half-day Sangha
Exercise 46
This hike is like no other. Three sets of chains at the top of Kloof Corner, after climbing a set of stairs at 65 degrees. The first set of chains tests not only my climbing skills but also trust in my muscles. Many turn around here. I thought I was doing well until the third chain. By then, I was tired, bruised and not sure how I am going to survive this one. No safety nets and easy to step into ledges. Until Danny points where I should place my hands and feet. Use the chain, he says. I climb up and make it.
Key takeaway? While I have the skills, physical fitness and endurance, I still didn’t trust myself to climb and on the mountain. It helps to have someone show you the way, pointing out little cracks and surface you can’t see. It also helps to have someone who waits for you and takes you along the journey.
Personally? I was the only one from the group of four to be doing this hike for the first time. Being the worst at something humbled me in the best way, chasing discomfort. Also gratifying to be bad at something, showing me I still have so much to learn. Having to rely on the people I just met an hour ago to hoist me up a ledge that I was too short to climb.
Growth takes place with people who are better than me. Who’s been there and done that.
I often find myself being the best, making me complacent and stale.
Here is to pursuing discomfort. Seeking people who are better than me. To beginner mindsets.
This love letter goes to the fellow three hikers who pushed and pulled me along the way. While offering their variety of snacks and fun stories to make us laugh all morning.
Bruised and happy.
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