That which does not Kills you, makes you Stronger!

We all face challenges, every day of different magnitude. There will be emotional challenges, work challenges, relationship challenges, even our Faith can be challenged, and physical challenges. My mom used to say, "the challenges you face today, will make you stronger for tomorrow".

There have been times in my life I have hoped there could never be something worse to face that I need to be stronger for in the future. It is all called life, it does build character and strength. Sure there are days recently I face physical pain and feel too sore or tired to think of hiking. Hiking is my hobby, passion and outlet. We all have that something in our life that helps us to find peace, stability and strength. Also, I know the days I second guess myself about "doing a hike", are the times I need it most.

So today, double up on the pain creams and rubs, restock the pack with food and water, grab the camera and suck it up butter cup! 6 miles of intense elevation gain, stepping over rocks, roots and logs. Up hill to a nice view point plateau to still go back downhill another mile to a pristine peaceful lake. Which means a mile back uphill to the view point to descend back down to the truck. 46 degrees at the trailhead this morning, over cast skies that even spit a few rain drops, enough winds to keep the bugs away and not a soul on the trail. The last time I trekked this trail, we crossed snow fields. Today, flowers and even the first huckleberries! Leaving, time to find the inner strength, personal words of self wisdom and get it done!

Years ago when I joined EMS, trails were about "getting in shape and prepare for rescues". When I was young and started the hiking days with Dad at Big Bear, a hike was about together time to explore and look for old mine shafts. When I moved to the Pacific Northwest at 18, hiking was all about getting out to explore and see the world. Today, hiking is finding my own grounding point, meeting personal challenges and enjoying the passion with my camera and quiet time in nature. The trail today did challenge the physical pain but also strengthened my body......if you don't use it, you lose it! So get out and don't let it kill you, let it make you stronger.

You Were Given This Life Because You Are Strong Enough To Live It.