The Climb

In 2010, we took a vacation to St. Augustine, FL. I had always wanted to see the historic city. As a history teacher, I had hit the jackpot. It was one of our best vacations we ever took as a family. As we were headed back to our condo, we passed the famous lighthouse in St. Augustine. Ken and I looked at each other and said let's go check it out! The kids were on board with the idea, so we went off the beaten path. It was open and yes we could climb it. I was weakening a bit in my legs and I knew it would take a lot out of both of us. As a team, he and I trudged up the lighthouse. Each flight we would stop and regroup and encourage one another on the climb. When we made it to the top, we were so elated. As I look at the pictures and see pure elation on all of our faces, I remember and hence get to live twice.

Here's the allegory. I'm an English teacher at heart. Life is a climb. We have our childhood climbs, teenage climbs, college and young adult climbs, mid-life climbs, golden years climbs, and then we take our final climb. Each one of us is at a different point in our ascents. Each one of us will experience different snags and trials. What is the most important part of our journey? The secret is to share your climb with the ones you love. Love and encourage one another in your families and communities. If you are wise enough to do this, you will discover as you make your last climb you have created a beautiful life full of true happiness. You too, will be able to live twice in your memories. And as you take that last climb, you will be sustained with love and contentment. Enjoy your climb. :)