The View & The Climb
Have you ever gone on a hike that ends with a breathtaking view? Being born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I have come across a few hikes that end with a view that makes you say, "That was worth the climb."
One of my all time favorite hikes is Rattlesnake Ledge in North Bend, WA. It is significant to me for multiple reasons, one of which being this is where I proposed to Amber in 2002.
The trail leads you up the hillside, winding through the trees and over bridges that help you cross over a few small creeks. As the trail ends, you emerge on to a massive rock ledge. You can see the Cascades, Rattlesnake Lake below you and much of the Snoqualmie Valley. The view is worth the climb.
I was hiking with a group of students one time. Half way up the trail some began to complain about how hard it was. It created an opportunity to teach a simple principle. I asked this question: If the climb is so hard, why do you think people are willing to do it?
Silence.
Then eventually one student responded, "They probably know that the view is worth it."
Exactly.
Here is the point: no matter where you are at in the climb today, remember that the view will be worth it. Unfortunately, there are many people that want the experience of the view without the investment of the climb.
Many people want the experience of the view without the investment of the climb.
There are no escalators or elevators up the side of the mountain. Life often requires investment before the experience. Embrace that simple truth today.
Move life forward today. The view will be worth it!
