Facing Challenges

The thing about venturing out on a hike that chalenges the individual is that when the challenge is complete, when the individual has successfully stretched his limits, the sense of pride and accomplishment far outweighs the difficulties that come with the struggle.

My most recent backpacking venture may have been easy for some people, but I was not conditioned, and that hike was more than I’d ever done before. But it was totally worth it for the sense or pride and accomplishment that I felt when finished.

Right now I’m sitting in an airport, about to head back to adult responsibilties after taking my summer vacation as a teacher. It was the most enjoyable and relaxing summer vacation I’ve ever had. But now it’s time to head back to the real world, a world with the usual responsibilites, as well as some new challenges to face. There are so many unknowns right now as I seek a new path for my life, beginning with taking online classes on top of my usual work.

I’m afraid. I hate the unknowns. And I wonder if I can handle these challenges. But there’s a part of me that looks forward to facing these challenges for the same reason I enjoy the challenges of a tough hike. I look forward to the end, when I can say with pride and accomplishment, that I did it. That I made it through the challenges and the struggles and came out the other end stronger than before.