The next morning, upon awakening with aching muscles, I thought for a moment, “I don’t think I can hike out of here.” I prayed for a mule to come by and take me out, or a helicopter to pick me up – even if it cost $1,000! I shared this thought with my friend who encouragingly said “You are going to get out of here and on your own two feet.” She mixed me an electrolyte solution that I drank and then I began feeling better.
The nine mile hike out for my group was difficult as well. The heat continued and even with stopping for water and snack breaks, there were times when it seemed that our hike would never end. But, it did. I cannot explain the feeling of joy, relief, accomplishment that I felt all at the same time as I took my last step out and was greeted with hugs from those who had come out before me.
I share this experience to let you know that you can reach your goals and you can overcome any challenges that may be in the path of your success. Don’t let your moments of weakness or doubt keep you from accomplishing your dreams or marking something off your bucket list. The straight stretches and the switchbacks will end, and you will cross the finish line and have a sense of accomplishment like none other!