Setting hard goals and working towards them often defines part of human existence. Two of my friends did just that this week. Jim Davidson summited Cho Oyu and John Little his first 14er. I am so proud of both of my friends.
In Jim’s blog he wrote:
“I began to wonder what climbing to such great heights would be like, how one got to go on such an adventure, and, dare I say it, if even I might be able to go someday. A dream was born.”
I trained with Jim and saw his plan evolve, his desire grow and his resolve strengthen. And he stood on the summit of the 26,907 Tibetan peak, 6th highest on earth, on September 24th. I can’t wait to hear the stories.
John Little set a goal few of his Houston friends understood – to stand on top of a Colorado 14er. John saw climbing as a way to improved health and worked hard to reach his dream. His first attempt was thwarted by a combination of factors including a deep and soft spring snow pack but also, his understanding of the challenge. Not one to surrender, he continued to train.
He wrote on his Never Stop Climbing website:
“You can learn a lot from falling face first in deep snow every 30 seconds for hours on end. So, the plan now is to take those lessons and return to Belford-Oxford in early October”
I was honored to climb with John to the top of the 14,197′ Mt. Belford. He worked hard and pushed his ever expanding limits. He stood on the top.
Sadly another story this week ended in triumph and tragedy. 71 year-old Clifton Maloney died after his summit of Cho Oyu. My condolences to his friends, family and guide. He was an avid climber who loved the challenge. Reportedly his last words were:
“I am the happiest man in the world. I just climbed a beautiful mountain.”
My experience has been there are three themes to accomplishing a big goal:
1. Make it bigger than you think you can do
2. Do the hard work of detailed preparation
3. Never abandon your dream
My sincere congratulations to Jim, John and Clifton. You lived your dream.
Climb On!
Alan
2 thoughts on “Follow Your Dreams”
Iam an armchair mountaineer with great interest in all the 14 8000ers.
Iam lucky to have found your blog & I luv the way you tackle problems.
MCS
im happy to have found your web site Alan,thanks J.B.C.i wonder about everest like could i do that?only if we try.jim inspires me to keep climbing higher.
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