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The first week of September, my wife, Julie, and I decided that we would take some vacation time. We took the top off of my Jeep and headed out to Northern New Mexico, and Colorado.
Our goal was to climb Mt. Elbert, the tallest point in Colorado, 14,433 ft. Elbert is the third
tallest in the United States, the first being McKinley in Alaska, then Mt. Whitney in California.
We camped at the Twin Lakes Campground, just a short distance from the trailhead. We were taking the Southern Route, 11 miles round trip, but one could drive up a Jeep trail 2 miles, cutting the hike shorter by four miles. Seven miles seemed more than do-able. We jog regularly and usually do a four mile route. No problem.
From a distance, the mountain looked very passive, smooth and round. The trail started out through one of the largest old growth aspen forests in the U.S. Very pretty, but very soon the trail became incredibly steep, and continued, steep, steep, steep. We climbed out of the aspen above tree line, rocky and steep. Above tree line, the wind blew cold and we were forced to put on the layers we had packed away in our day packs.
Between the altitude and the sharp incline, we would walk a hundred steps and have to stop to catch our breath.
I remember wondering, "What have I gotten myself into!"
Five and a half hours later we finally found ourselves at the summit. It was tough.
Reflecting back over our adventure, I realized that the very same things that got me to the top of that mountain are the same things that can get us successfully through life.
1. Prepare yourself mentally and physically. Life can be hard, and we want to develop the mental outlook that will support us and encourage us. Develop positive self-talk. In addition, we can survive tough times a little bit easier if we maintain a standard of fitness.
2. Don't get caught up looking too far down the road. Looking too far ahead can seem overwhelming. If that happens, focus on where you are, take it "one step at a time",and focus on "the next right thing". Look at your progress, see how far you've come.
3. Have a social support that encourages you. Each of us needs the friends and family that will talk us up. Lift us up. Encourage and support us.
4. Rely on your Spiritual Connection. Have faith in yourself and know that you are a part of something far greater than yourself.
5. Take time to rest, have a good snack, drink plenty of water, and don't forget to breathe!
6. Enjoy the journey. Take time to admire and enjoy your surroundings.
Until next time,
John M. Irvin, C.S.P.
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888-997-PHUN (7486) | 918-524-1424 | john@johnirvin.com | Mailing Address
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© 2010, John Irvin, All Rights Reserved
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