The view from the inside, or lack of view.
I was just reflecting on an experience I had several months ago when I was rock climbing with some friends.
I made two climbs that day. The first climb was fun, enjoyable; I wasn't tired so I could enjoy life going on around me. The second climb was a different story.
The second climb: half way up I became consumed by the fatigue my body was feeling and the difficulty of the climb. I became blind. Blind to opportunities of ledges and cracks that were close by. Blind to the fact that all I had to do to reach the top was straighten my legs. I was so consumed in my world which appeared difficult, that I was ready to give up.
But my friends around me were not blind. They could see the whole situation. They could see the ledges and cracks which would provide perfect handholds. They could see that my leg was still bent and all I needed to do was straighten it. They were my eyes and my encouragement to reach the top.
When I reflect back on the situation, I think to myself... "If only I didn't let fear and fatigue blind and paralyze me, then I would have been able to reach the top without so much emotion and difficulty. I could have done it so much better. I wouldn't have needed help."
Is that the goal, to not need help?
Hmm... I don't think so. The goal is to get to the top, to finish the race. And I am thankful to those around me who can see clearly the whole picture when I am blinded by my circumstances. I want to learn to keep trusting those around me who can see the whole picture and want to help get to the top.
Think this applies to more than just rock climbing?
