It seemed a significant unfolding epiphany as we rested there that adventure day...There we were, now standing quietly before our chosen objective. Having made great time on the trail with one of our earliest starts yet, we now had some moments to pause and gaze up at what we were journeying towards. Off came the packs, then the hats and headlamps too, as first light was now just upon us. Then the fleece, gloves, and even a few peeled off their boots for a restful airing of tired feet.
Our conversations then were open, and respectful of what was to come. We seemed to realize the enormity of the chosen challenges, and the implications of such commitment was exhilarating yet humbling...
The muted tones were still of enthusiasm though, as while still holding on to our dreams and goals, we seemed to be letting go of trying to predict and control the outcome yet to be experienced... There was a softening, within our expectations that blended well with the determination there; less of ego if you will and more of intentional allowings... A peeling away down to the basics of why we were out there...
To meet this goal, we each would likely have to modify, maybe even set aside our own personal objectives, so that the group could attain a shared success. It seemed a process, however brief, of 'standing before', of distilling our gear, ourselves, and our desires to a core of something essentially else...
It felt more pure in a sense, more relaxed yet more focused, and with a different kind of energy - as all that was left was now spirit, shared spirit as we stood there before going onward and upward.....
DSD
My appreciation to G. Wiltsie for the above wonderful images.
