The power of water to create both tranquility and disaster and above all, to provide life.
Climbing the vertical walls, or as it is known in 'classy' circles, via ferrata, is addictive. When we discovered this location, a little outside the town of Pamporovo, we returned 3 times thereafter to challenge the wall and our nerves. We suppose that's what addictions are all about. Nevertheless, because it suits us to say: There are good addictions and those that are destructive. I suppose if one should fall from the wall then it would considered a destructive pastime with no recovery. Why then should seemingly intelligent people (excuse the licence) undertake such functions? Why indeed? Without being defensive, one may ask why anyone would drive on a freeway at high speeds amongst many maniacs, some impaired? Why would one fly on an airplane? Is the answer to life about living as risk free as possible or is there something more? Perhaps it's about rising to challenges and beating fear. It's personal. Some suggest it's about showing off. Maybe. But what about the concept of living with oneself and having this constant reminder going off like an unpleasant alarm: 'You failed the test. You quit. You did not rise to the challenge. You could have done it but took the easy way out and now rationalize it.' That feeling stays with a person forever.
It goes further we submit. When a person quits, what happens when facing the next hurdle. It becomes easier to accept failure or not to rise to the challenge. It's amazing how these things work. Failure begets failure; success begets success.
On the other hand, some people are just plain dumb (I wonder who?) and don't know when to avoid danger or at least, excessive risk. In our years, experience has taught us a bit about the different levels of risk. What is extremely difficult to gauge is not so much the level of danger but rather, judgement in deciding what's within one's capabilities. A very difficult concept, always a work-in-progress.
Jen shows her mettle and deals with the practical aspects of the above text. While not vertical, there are no safeguards but a superb experience (San Diego after our return).
Tranquil has a special place, too.
Less tranquil has a place, too.
At least he's not blocking the view.
Back to tranquil.
...and everyone thought Jeffrey was the show-off. Look, Mom, one hand.
With reference to the opening text. (It's probably worth a read to understand us better.)
Our 3rd return.
A view of Smolyan from above the ferrata.
Let the water flow.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
The opening line mentions the sheer force of water flow. Iguazu Falls, Argentina, embodies that power.
From Argentina, looking into Brazil.
'Gentler' but still impressive, the beauty of Croatia.
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