On our thought to be second to last day of climbing (which ended up being our last day of rock climbing because we got rained out on our "to be" last day) me and Ashley traveled up the right side of the loop trail (a trail that follows a distinct loop around the most notable climbing cliffs in the valleys and canyons of Skaha Provincial Park) to make our way to a climbing area called "Claim-It-All." Fitting name as we would have seen most of the major cliffs in the area once we made the hike to this destination.
Hiking through the distinctive rocky landscape, the back country of Skaha opened up as we traveled across the base of a steep cliff called "Morning Glory". The sun was shining upon the pristine rocks and climbers from all parts of Canada and elsewhere were ascending classic flesh pressing routes. We made our way to the long rising cliff in which we were looking for and immediately started to climb the notables that were recommended in the guide book. I think we both had a sense of peace to be out in nature and to be taking part in an activity that we love to do.
There are various thoughts that occur before attempting a difficult and unknown climb. For me when I put on my climbing shoes with a satisfying squish to the toes, clip in my protective gear to my harness, tie in my rope, and chalk up my hands, I know I am going to try my darnedest to get to the top of that climb. This ritual gives me a psyche that is hard to explain. I'm going to battle, but the battle is fun. Part of this battle includes the risk of falling on a lead climb (climbing up a cliff wall while placing pieces of equipment periodically that will stop your fall). The thought of falling from a precarious position high above your last piece of protection is tantalizing; it can evoke fear causing your body to release adrenaline as you ready yourself for difficult, strenuous, and calculated maneuvers. If you lose concentration our fail to have the will to hold onto that tiny crimp at the crux (most difficult section or move on the route) of the climb, there may be consequences. If that does not excite you, you may as well be of another species.
On the last climb of the day I decided to lead a climb that was near the top of my limit for strength and technicality. My psyche was high and I was ready for battle. At the crux of the climb I breathed deeply and cursed as steadily rising pain coursed through my fingers and forearms. I pushed through this section with mental will that would break Jackie Chan and screamed a war cry of triumph at the next bomber hold. After rappelling down from the climb I realized that I had forgotten about the fear of falling during my ascent.
In a way a climb of this nature can relate to various situations in our lives. I think the mental power that I exerted was more definitive to completing the climb then my actual physical strength. Therefore, when we doubt whether we can complete certain "climbs" in our lives due to a perceived limitation we may actually be closing the possibility to completing tasks that actually would be very possible if a focus on mental power were involved.
So there it is, climbing, some philosophy, adventure, friendship, and nature all wrapped into one experience on a day that I will never forget.
Good luck with the climbs that you will face in your life and do not forget the importance of the power of will.
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