Rock climbing...
Is never something you will be ale to get me to do. Trust me, I've tried. My friends love to do it, my brother too, but I ca only get barely off the ground and my anxiety says ABORT to the point I can't move. But just because I can't do it, doesn't mean I can't see the strength, courage, and beauty in the sport. During my trip to Utah, I actually got the opportunity to capture a part of people's lifestyles- a love of a sport that brings them together as a community.
I was taking a break from hiking (due to a massive panic attack from a hike the day before...more on that in another blog) and took a drive down the river. And when I turned the corner, suddenly as far as I could see were people scaling walls, and riding dirt bikes up the hills. I was so glad I brought my camera with me.
Each person I approached when they were taking a break between climbs, and we talked about life and why they climb. Every person had a story of finding something that they consider theirs, something so integral to who they are as a person. Finding expression and community with those they meet, some building friendships that have lasted over 30 years.
And then, they climbed.
I would stand below, moving around to get the best angles, as they would climb and sometimes just keep on telling stories as they went. Yelling louder so I could hear them the higher they got. I stayed for hours meeting new people, Listening to their stories and admiring not just the physical strength, but the emotional strength as they would endure uncertainty, failures, and falls, just to dust their hands and try again. Their team mates and friends below making them laugh in the face of tears, and encouragement in the perceived lack of strength. I may not be able to climb rocks physically like they can, but we could all learn a thing or two from the mentality and strength of these rock climbers. I'm so thankful for the time I got to spend with them after I found myself struggling from a day pushing my own mental limits, and so I dust myself off, and get ready to try again.
-Laura
