Its a general cliche for people ascending a bunch of steps, climbing a mountain or even doing something that takes a bit of effort, to motivate themselves with the prospect of achieving or seeing something astonishing when they reach the end of the road. So much focus is given to the final products, the achievements and the breathtaking views. All things that aren't guaranteed.
Its seldom that people appreciate the in between "the start" and "the finish". Make the effort to look around when climbing to the top, speak to people along the way and appreciate the journey. It is along the journey that you have the chance to make the most mistakes and learn from them. Its along the journey that you get to meet the most people and learn from their experiences. Value the process, not just the output.
When a 78 year old man makes climbing over 5000 steps look easily. Whats your excuse ?
Its always easier to go through struggle with someone else.
Or you can suck it up and make it on your own.
"I could have been a tour guide, spilling a bunch of lies to the tourists that come to see the rock. But I chose to make an honest living and sell post cards instead."
All photos by Dulan Perera.
