Friday, November 28, 2008

Ups and downs


I climbed a mountain once. When the group leader asked why I wanted to climb the mountain, nothing profound came to mind. I merely stammered "to twirl on the top like Julie Andrews in 'The Sound of Music'." It was the best I could offer. It was honest.

Climbing that mountain (known as Indefatigable in the Canadian Rockies) was one of the hardest things I had ever done in my life. It was also one of the most freeing, most rewarding. And yes, I did twirl at the summit ridge.

As challenging as the ascent was, the descent was even trickier. Every step had to be carefully placed as the loose rocks and pebbles were waiting to take you for a steep ride on your bum if you slipped.

Going up or coming down, you had to be mindful of where you placed your feet. While in motion, you had to be grounded. I can relate to that paradox.

I'm climbing again. Actually, I'm helping my daughter, Jenn, climb. There's not much of a guide to climbing an inner terrain. Still, determination and belief that the summit is worth reaching keep me going. This is more than a one-day hike. I'm in it for the long-haul. Some days the slope is steep, slippery, and I step more cautiously. Other days bring some sudden breathtaking views and I relax a bit and smile. This is life, my life at the moment.

November has never been an easy month. It holds a family history of decline and loss - family members, surgery. Yet, it is also the month that my godson, Donald, and my granddaughter, Hannah, were born. So November brings both struggle and blessing.

I'm an optimist at heart. What's at the top of the mountain calls me to look up time and again. I may not have the energy I had when I climbed Mount Indefatigable several years ago but I do have the desire to reach the summit. And bring Jenn along with me. One patient, vigilant step at a time.

The view at the top is all so worth it.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Love to you both, E. Much, much love.

Anonymous said...

I'm Jenn's rescue friend and avid reader of her blog (and as a result, yours too.) It has brought me much peace knowing she has you in her corner as she navigates this terrain. I know it would be my mom that I would depend on the most as well to help me through such a personal, gut & heart wrenching journey. I send you both my thoughts of strength and support everyday. Truly.

Anonymous said...

I'm a college classmate of Jenn's, and I want you to know that I am thinking of you both. As you climb, try to find a balance between effort and surrender. And remember to look up -- not just at the "top," but at the view from where you are. Sending my very best wishes!

Anonymous said...

Such a beautiful vision you have painted here. Strength and peace to you on your journey. You are grounded while in motion. Your feet and Jenn's are firmly planted in love. Nothing quite like the strength that flows between women...especially mother and daughter.

Anonymous said...

to "Twirl on the top like Julie Andrews" is a perfectly reasonable justification to climb a mountain.

Anonymous said...

I know evelyn would be so very proud of you and your Jenn.

Watching someone you love suffer with a "thing" you as a mom cannot fix.....I get it.

You are giving her the best medicine. Love and understanding, Amen.

With great respect for your mothering, Mater.

Cindi

velocibadgergirl said...

Also sending hugs and well wishes to you and to Jenn, as always.

Swistle said...

This is lovely. I love this analogy for parenting--and especially for parenting a grown child.