What's your definition of something that's really, really cool? I'm guessing it's a question some of you have been asked recently and can't help but wonder what answers you came up with. If you didn't take 'cool' too literally, that is!
For me, something cool is an experience that I would love to have had but will always be just out of reach. It's not the impossible, but it is something that might well feel impossible and can't be done without being physically and mentally prepared. It takes skill, determination, and courage. And the reward is in knowing you conquered your fears as much as it is in reaching the goal.
People who do really cool things are braver than me and fitter than me. But they are not the super-humans. They are ordinary people who don't give up.
This seems like the perfect moment to introduce you to LotusPetalYoga. As the name suggests, this lady is a yoga instructor, the first hint at a strength of will that has driven her to achieve those out of reach goals.
Not only that but LotusPetalYoga is also a rock climber. (On top of that, she's an excellent writer, as if she wasn't cool enough in my eyes already.) Rock climbers are in my view both awesome and just a little crazy. This was something confirmed by LPY when she revealed one of the challenges she set for herself in Rock Climbing Half Dome's Regular Northwest Route. Yes, that is indeed her route marked on the picture that introduces this article.
"I think its called the Thank God Ledge not because its a small ledge to rest upon after hundreds of smooth vertical feet of climbing, but rather because when you get there you really want to thank God that you are nearly at the top of this climb."
Her account of this climb is compelling and I will leave it to her to tell you about it in her own words. It is a tale that is both rich in detail of the climb and in its honesty. This gruelling experience took her, as it would any climber, to the limits of her emotional and physical endurance. She also happened to be pregnant at the time.
As cool things go, what this woman achieved is way up there for me. And some time in the future, when she tells the next generation the tale, I bet her kid is going to think she is really cool too!
Thank you so much for reviewing my page on our climb up half dome, I really appreciate your kind words and am so glad you enjoyed my story. it was quite an adventure, I hope many more are in my furute!
ReplyDeleteAn incredible story, Nicki. Dreams really can come true.
ReplyDeleteYou're most welcome, Eliza. I can see Kim was as impressed with what you achieved as I was. Truly a feat to be proud of and I hope you tell us all about your future adventures too!
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