It's the Climb

Every step was more exhausting than the next, but we had to keep moving forward if we were ever going to make it.

The journey was taking longer than expected and the higher the sun rose, the more the snow melted, making the trek up Mt. Adams more dangerous. 

With every step the ground collapsed beneath us and we'd be up to our waist in snow! Before taking another step, we'd have to dig our way out and crawl to our feet, just to do it all over again. 

We fell forward up the mountain like this for two hours, and with every step I wondered where I was going to find the energy to continue. 

At one point, after crawling out of a hole, I paused to turn around and observe the progress we had made. What I saw transformed my heart to become like the snow around us—melted, as it basked in the glory of the surroundings. 

We were literally standing above the clouds! A view reserved only for those willing and able to endure the ordeal of an adventure! In that moment I recognized the privilege to be there, to soak in the glory of the surroundings, and to enjoy every moment of the journey—difficulties and all.

When you can enjoy the process of your journey rather than merely delaying joy until the final outcome, you empower yourself with enhanced interest and sustained effort—a self-fulfilling prophecy to help you achieve your desired results.

Application
How might you apply this in your life? Here are a few examples: 

• Students can choose to enjoy the process of learning. 
• Teachers can choose to enjoy the process of honing their communication strategies. 
• Parents can choose to enjoy the process of witnessing their children grow. 
• Professionals can choose to enjoy the process of honing their leadership skills.

These are just a few quick examples to stoke your thinking. Whoever you are and whatever your adventure, I encourage you to discover your own ways to enjoy the journey ahead. 

Reflection
How can you find more joy in the process of your own glorious adventure?