OUTTA THE BLUES TO THE MOUNTAINS HIGH

Once upon a time when I was younger (am young as it is), I got the opportunity to climb the highest mountain in Western Kenya, Mt Elgon. Now this is a moment I really cherish to this day. Mountains have a character of their own, right from the vegetation to the climate found at their different altitudes irrespective of the surrounding environment/area.

Mountains command respect. Before one climbs a mountain he/she has to get acclimatized to the mountain situation. One has to get used to the thin air especially in the higher altitudes; this in addition to the biting cold and the strenuous journey one has to undertake to conquer the alp. Well, am not really a mountain expert, but my experience on the mountain taught me a few lessons which I cherish to this day

One thing is that one should never be assumptive (sic). Never assume nor overlook anything. Be prepared in everything you do. Never underestimate any situation or person or whatever it is you may be facing. It is prudent to be well prepared for all eventualities, but neither should we overestimate anything. But aren't we human? Many a times we go about life guarding ourselves and covering ourselves in silky cocoons afraid of exposing ourselves. In a mountain situation this would involve packing just about everything in the rucksack. Extra pairs of gloves, an extra blanket to supplement to supplement the huge well, lined sleeping bag, extra rations, an extra first aid kit, well practically a micro-hospital. The result is that we weigh ourselves down with unnecessary luggage. Is. it any wonder that we more often than not get slowed down and tire quite easily. Do we need this extra luggage in life?

On the other hand, underestimating the challenge that the mountain portends is practically suicidal. You don’t wanna run out of supplies mid way through a climb, especially one that could take several days all in the name of travelling light. You simply need to be prepared to deal with each and every foreseeable eventuality. An extra jacket would be very welcome during that unexpected storm up the mountain. In extreme cases, underestimating the alpine challenge is simply put, deadly lethal.

Secondly during the hike, one needs to pace themselves at a pace that one can handle. Not too fast as to wear yourself out quickly and not too slow as to drag the expedition unnecessarily.
However to be dreaded most is altitude sickness, could be compared to seasickness but in my opinion more sickening. Usually brought about by the sudden altitude change and atmospheric pressure. A mountain climbers nightmare that.

But the greatest lesson that I brought with me was this. Enjoy! Enjoy the fresh mountain air. Pause and take one deep breathe and exhale slowly. Savor the moment. Enjoy the company of good friends, the friendly banter and the camaraderie. Enjoy the different mountain vistas, the variety of flora and even fauna one meets along the way. Live the moment and let it take the breath out of you. The greatest joy however is reaching the summit. It is a top of the world experience. Your head could literally be in the clouds. The sense of conquering and achievement is simply heavenly.

In this world are many mountains, majestic and immovable. The many troubles we face and the everyday challenges. We must climb these mountains, conquer those peaks and vanquish those enemies.