Where do we begin? Had we known the trail would be so muddy including most sections along very narrow ridges at an altitude of 2,800 feet, would we have undertaken it? Without hesitation, our answer would be—absolutely. Of course, a dry trail would have made it one of the best hikes. What a day! If the question was phrased a little differently, such as: “Are you two a little crazy?” We might have to answer in the affirmative, too. It is very difficult to explain the build of excitement within us as we approach a hike, especially a challenging one. The more strenuous, the more challenging—the greater the elation that follows its completion. Add our concept of when people sweat together, it forges a strong bond especially when an equally strong deodorant is used.
As we returned to the lower trail, a fellow summed it up when he remarked, after looking at our clothing and legs: “You two have seen action today”. Six hours and ten miles on the mountain trail, numerous slips and slides, sun, clouds, rain and wind were with us, too. The climb was terrific but fraught with danger as we crossed the ridges on paths that were at times a mere 12 inches wide with drop-offs of two thousand feet and more. Of course, the real hazard was the mud that created instability, both on the ups and downs. It is quite frightening looking down at a slippery path without handgrips or roots and rocks to place the feet. We both had instances of walking and then suddenly, in a split second, finding ourselves sitting on our ‘bums’ involuntarily. We are most grateful that we are intact, physically; having only discarded pants, boots, socks and much energy.
The whole hike was challenging but the last march to the peak was the steepest and very enjoyable. The view was a spectacular 360 degrees. One feels enveloped by these beautiful mountains, completely covered in plants and trees. To the south, we could see Honolulu including Pearl Harbor. We had traveled from the north shore to undertake the hike today. Many of the pictures look similar to what we have posted over the weeks. However, when a person stands in the middle of it all, each view is unique, each one is a blessing for the viewer. To stand alone, atop a mountain high looking out at the other mountains and scenery with no human in sight, gives one a different perspective on life.
We had an experience today that answered a question that we are sure many face from time to time. At the peak, the clouds moved in fast, creating a somewhat eerie feeling, particularly as the velocity of the wind rose sharply. By the way, the frequent changes in the weather make Hawaii interesting and enjoyable. One day is never the same as another. Back to the incident. The stylish hat flew from the head and landed in a thorn bush on the edge of the peak. Much of the growth at the ledges, edges and ridges has its roots in the sidewalls. While it may look like the bush is sitting on the summit surface, it’s often on the side. One can easily stand on such a bush and tumble over the edge. In fact, two slips today had our one leg over the edge. What to do? Should we walk to the soft edge to retrieve a 20 dollar hat, no matter how stylish with the smell of its owner worked well in by now? Or, should one say ‘goodbye’. After all, a life is worth somewhat more than a lousy hat. Anyone knows that.
We think the issue is not a material concept. Perhaps it is more to do with challenges in life. If we evaluated everything on the basis that a life is greater than this or that, would we ever do anything? Would we ever take any risks? Of course, we should evaluate each and every risk with some degree of care. One should never act blindly. However, one of life’s components is the unknown, is risk. Anyway, that is why, we think, we went after the ‘stupid but very stylish hat'.
We have probably tired you with our philosophy. Nevertheless, should you reach this paragraph, we shall be more than delighted. A comment on this issue or any other would be most welcome, too.
Enjoy the week!
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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