By Samantha McKenzie

“If you cannot understand that there is something in man which responds to the challenge of this mountain and goes out to meet it, that the struggle is the struggle of life itself upward and forever upward, then you won’t see why we go.”   Edmund Hillary

Climbing a mountain can be full of twists and unexpected turns. If you’ve ever taken on this challenge, you know there are obstacles to overcome.

Sometimes there’s pain involved. There are objects that impede your path. Often times there are steep hills and slippery rocks to get over. If you’re not careful, there will be accidental trips and falls. Sore muscles usually come with the territory.

But most people who take on this difficult task, move through the challenges and make it all the way to the top. They reach their peak, they make it to the summit, they arrive at their destination.

Life is quite the same. It is full of surprises and curve balls. With all of the best laid plans, things don’t always work out the way we wanted them to. Sometimes this causes a set back. Sometimes it causes you to scream. You consider quitting, but you don’t. Something inside of you just won’t.

When there’s a goal in mind, many of us rise to the challenge and face life’s obstacles head on.

Plus, let’s admit, the view from the mountaintop is breathtaking.

The reward from the life you live will be as well.

As you continue to move toward your goals, don’t be discouraged. If you fall down, get back up. If you get lost, find your compass. If you get tired, take a break, and then get back up and complete the journey.

On the way to your own personal summit, be sure to manage through the trials and see it to the end. The view from the mountaintop is breathtaking…and the reward is always greater.

Onward…