-David McCullough Jr.
Climbing the mountain can be arduous, it needs determination, stamina, and more reserved strength however, reaching the summit is beyond compare. The most incredible and rewarding moment is at its peak. To have eye-witnessed the magical picturesque of the green scene at the top of the world is a great achievement above all.
In this blog, I'm going to share how I embrace nature's goodness that brings goodness to my well-being, how nature builds trust and camaraderie among my friends and how I conquer my fear of stepping the highest level of the mountain.
I can't quite imagine if I'll be able to climb the steep mountain at this age. We have tried to climb the mountains once before, and have also experienced caving on top of them with ease and confidence. This time, I'm anxious about this mountaineering as we have agreed to try to reach the fifth tallest mountain in Cebu, City, the Mt. Kapayas of Catmon.
We left home early because we had a long way to go. We were so lucky on this day due to the moderate weather. Blazing heat from the sun is energy-draining. I made sure that all the stuff needed must be placed in my backpack as this was not just an ordinary climb. It is full of challenges and difficulties, I'm pretty sure about this.
We travelled afar and upon our arrival, the registration held at their Municipal Hall was done. After filling out the waiver, the proper orientation was commenced right away. The different guides and techniques for reaching the top were properly discussed by the president of local tourism so we will be guided accordingly.
Embracing Nature's Beauty
Together with our local tourist guides, from the Municipal Hall, we rode the motorcycle taxi in going to the jump-start area. While I was riding, my thoughts and my mind were intensely agitated due to the scary pieces of information heard from the person who orientated us. However, there was a sudden change in my life's perspective upon seeing the outside world full of wonders. I had embraced the beauty of nature that surrounds our way. Positive energies were instantly radiated.
We have explored a hushed place that gives a calming sensation and it is truly indescribable. We hadn't reached the starting point and yet I was pleased by the cool mountain breeze. Tall trees are everywhere. The dramatic green scenery around burnt all the negativities that surrounded my mind about this place. The tranquillity can not be replicated.
To have seen the narrow road, I suddenly was nervous. The occurrence of an intense series of heavy rains in Catmon led the other parts of the land to move massively. Indeed, We caught up with a backhoe operator who religiously cleared the debris from the landslide that covered the road. We got off the motorcycle we were riding and forced ourselves to walk this portion of the road so we could get through to the other side.
Conquering challenges
We haven't even reached the starting point but we were enticed already with challenges that bothered my mind. I don't want to go on. The road was slippery and tough, however, I never let my fear defeat my will. My courage still prevailed, I could go through it.
This was the moment of truth. The kickoff. Now join me as we explore and discover Mt. Kapayas and be mesmerized by the astonishing view above the world.
We walked through the thick woods. My endurance is being measured on this trip, the pathway is slippery and we need to be cautious to avoid danger. It was truly challenging, I needed to lift my body even harder, and more forces were exerted which led to leg pain. This climb was pretty different from the previous climb that we surpassed. It was more challenging at Mt. Kapayas.
Building trust as we are immersed in nature
Even though my legs are aching, looking at the beautiful scenery that can be seen on this mountain recharges my exhausted feeling. It is shrouded with wonders. The natural bubbling sound from the mountain stream interrupted the deafening silence which is good for our senses. It is so beautiful. The untiring water that keeps on flowing adds vibrancy to the surroundings.
Another wonder that lies amidst it is the habitat of different living creatures. There is serenity and it's a biodiversity.
Wait, did you see what I see? The shy type of snake diligently waited for its prey. I'm glad we were able to capture it before it took its exit.
Another incredible species that we passed. They roamed around freely with confidence that they would not be harmed.
Ascending for me was tougher compared to descending. Since the soil is made of clay, and the ground was still wet, it clung to the shoe causing the foot to become heavy before it could be lifted. However, amidst this trail, the local tourist guides assisted me on the arduous path so I could pass it easily. It is all about trust and confidence.
Before we reach the paradisiacal beauty of nature, we are going through the most difficult path. A very steep cliff has to be climbed and after surpassing it, the magical view above the world can truly be seen.
The rewarding moment
Now, the most awaited part, after I conquered my fear with the help of the people along my way. I'm on top of the towering mountain now. I reaped nature's beauty after the extreme obstacles; slipped two times due to the slippery path, hit my knees on boulders that gave to much pain and overcame the higher cliffs.
I was able to stand on the summit with pride, even though it made my legs so tired. Being able to view the incredible features of the world; like the calming fluffy clouds appeared to be closer, and the overlooking view of nature's natural landscape and the blue sea from afar brought a beautiful perspective to my life.
It was a great accomplishment after I successfully surpassed the tricky path. I felt elated, and the smiles of being triumphant reflected on my face. I definitely did it! This means I'm physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually stable as I was able to embrace nature's grandest beauty and was able to conquer my fear and weakness in climbing.
As we successfully descended, our smile of success was evidently shown in our group photo opportunity. The trust, efforts, perseverance and strong determination led us to be triumphant.
It was such an incredible climb after all. The stunning view feels like heaven with perfect contentment.