Climb Mountains...Move Mountains
January 24, 2006
I've found that my life experiences are well outlined by Dr. Seuss' book "Oh, the Places You’ll Go!"
“OH! THE PLACES YOU’LL GO! You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights! You’ll join the high fliers who soar to high heights.”
My parents always told me that I could do anything I wanted to do. They said, “If you work hard toward your goals you will be able to achieve them.” For the most part, I have found this to be true. For example, I wanted to travel to the Hawaiian Islands by the time I was 25. Last summer I was able to visit my friend in Maui and we climbed Haleakala.
What I didn’t realize was how difficult life's path can become. How was I to know there would be hard times, lessons to learn, hurt to deal with, hearts to be broken? Getting to Hawaii certainly wasn't easy, but well worth the struggle.
“I’m sorry to say so but, sadly, it’s true that Bang-ups and Hang-ups can happen to you. ...And when you’re in a Slump, you’re not in for much fun. Un-slumping yourself is not easily done.”
Our family's house burned down, a close loved one passed away, an encounter with a bear...all difficult obstacles to overcome before embarking on my journey. Luckily, my folks gave me tools to deal with unexpected trials. They have supported me when necessary and taught me that it’s okay to ASK FOR HELP. Unfortunately, most lessons have to be learned on your own. Personal reflection often takes a long time and I find it helps to talk out or write down burdens.
“There are some, down the road between hither and yon, that can scare you so much you won’t want to go on. But on you will go...Onward up many a frightening creek, though your arms may get sore and your sneakers may leak. On and on you will hike. And I know you’ll hike far and face up to your problems whatever they are.”
I’ve learned that the most important things are to never give up and to learn from your mistakes. If it weren’t for rain, there would never be rainbows. When you experience negative things in life it makes you appreciate and enjoy the good things even more. I did climb Haleakala and I plan on climbing many more mountains in my life whether they be literal or mental obstacles.
“And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.) KID, YOU’LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!...Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way!”