Do something everyday that scares you.
A DJ quoted the wisdom of Eleanor Roosevelt on the radio one day and the words resonated with me. She was not suggesting we should watch a horror flick or walk a tightrope. Instead the quote is alluding to how we challenge ourselves everyday.
Do you even know your fears? It looks a little different for all of us. I have one friend who won’t travel because of a fear of flying, but even subtle fears can cause a jump in the heart rate, like riding in an elevator.
Public speaking is on the top ten for me, and I don’t like asking for help. So you will never find me at a bar doing Karaoke and I do find comfort in taking care of things myself. It’s easier that way….for me.
What about those who won’t try new things, or in this age of technology, let go of tech savvy devices. And do I dare suggest a disconnect from social media?
Today my challenge was a hike to Marble Canyon, AZ. It is a section of the Colorado River that is the gateway to the Grand Canyon. The cool waters are a stunning contrast to the cliff walls and is a testament to what lies ahead inside the Grand Canyon. While the motivation was because of rumors saying the scenery would be breathtaking, I was completely out of my comfort zone. I would need help during the trek and I would have to be forthcoming about my fear of not making it back.
The hike was four miles down a river wash, and I took a deep breath when we scooted down the rocky edge onto the river. We would be in this dry river with snakes that had no escape, a risk of flash floods, and it would require physical strength to tackle thirty foot climbs.
The only way back was the way we came.
Going down the dry waterfalls was a test of character. Fear? It would linger for the remainder of the day with questions about whether or not I could climb back up. The only option would have been be to turn back before going on. I didn’t. I couldn’t.
Today was a choice and we trekked on.
And as promised Marble Canyon shared exactly what the rumors boasted.
No one said much. The views spoke it’s own volumes and the sound of the rushing water quieted the mind. Every so often a raft floated past on their way into the guts of the Grand Canyon and we could watch condors in their native habitat, and it was breathtaking.
On the way back my heart changed beat again. Restful palpitations changed to that what if. Inside I knew I would make it, or I never would have gone in the first place, but what if? The height of the waterfall looked higher from below, and I welcomed a boost in an effort to grip the rope at a higher spot. Adrenaline carried me right where I needed to be...pretty quickly. My husband laughed knowing I went into competitive, beast mode, and cheers came from above and below. I was shaking and immediately turned to help those behind me, but what I learned was I wasn’t alone in my fear. Two others wiped tears away when they made it. We all made it.
So how about you? Facing your fears doesn’t have to involve climbing rock walls, it can be trickles of stepping outside your comfort zone. When we do: we gain courage and confidence in the face of adversity, we learn something about our potential, and we might even learn something new.
Wind Kisses, Donna
Inspired by an invitation from Chad, who told us about this amazing fishing spot, that I would love.
And a the weekly prompt by Frank Jenson: Heights
Very inspiring. Beautiful photos. You did well.
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Thank you, that greasy cheeseburger and fries at the saloon at the local town was deserved.
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Incredible pictures!
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Thank you. Wish I could have captured more, so overwhelming.
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I imagine so. A beautiful area, so much to see!
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Some great pics. Love the colors of the rock against the pristine blue of the sky! For fun and contrast, you might try googling: marble canyon british Columbia images
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I will. Thanks Tom.
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Absolutely gorgeous. I wonder if that is what my river wash would look like with water. Looks so lush . Have you been there?
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Yes, I have. Quite a long time ago. All the Canadian national parks in the Rockies are gorgeous.
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Beautiful scenes, just wonderful to look at, must have been amazing in real life, thank you for sharing this slice of life.
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Thank you Paul. Feel pretty lucky sometimes.
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I can see from the photos that you are indeed.
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Breath-taking photos! And as you described the climbing, my hands were sweating and I was holding my breath! Thanks for taking the adventure and for sharing it for those of us who’ve yet to take the chance to climb a mountain! xx
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Thanks Shelley.
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Good attitude in general, just to add that fear is a normal warning signal so in the mountains it is simply sometimes much better not to climb on top but to return on half-way. Greetings from Berlin @ Ulli
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I would agree. The same thing applies here in the desert. The extreme heat is dangerous and that with high elevations can be life threatening. I think it is always about listening to your body. Even for us overachiever types. Thanks Ulli. Love hearing you are from Berlin. Germany has a place in my heart as I lived there as a child. Hiking there is amazing. Thank you for your visit.
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Oh, yes, the desert always fascinated me, and the film “Lawrence of Arabic” which I have seen several times shows both very well – the mere rural beautiness and the multiple dangers. I have climbed on Mt. Sinai nearly 30 years ago for experiencing the sun-set. Well on the top Christian pilgrims were praying, others singing the hymn of Tyrole while Egypt folks were loudly shouting “Hot tea! Chai!” And all this very, very early in the morning in a bizarre landscape. Quite strange!!! The sun is tough there, so people start the tour usually at 4 a.m Today Sinai unfortunately a very insecure and bloody area, not anymore advisable for private travelling! So better for me to go to the Austrian Alps again in August for simple summer freshness. All the best @ Ulli
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Love the hues from browns and reds. Wonderful 🙂
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Hey…Thanks. I have been gone for a bit. How are you? Autumn closing in?
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It’s now a cold rainy winters day. Noticed you hadn’t been around. All good here. How’s things with you?
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Very well. Lots of company in the winter months for us and family returned to Arizona, so busy. Nice to still see you are here. Catching up slowly, but that is the fun of blogging…its in our own time.
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It is great. Yes addicted to blogging. Hope to see some posts soon. I have been busy and seem to do a block of posts when I can.
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Excellent! Bravo!! ❤️
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Thank you.
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How great is this! Oh how I wish I was done with my working career so I could join you on some of these “what if” adventures. Congrats Dear Friend – so much to living, yes?!
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Thanks Kath. Wish I had MORE time. lol.
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