Because of death, we appreciate life #21

Gee I don’t think I could do that!

But at the same time, if I did make it to the top, what and exhilerating moment that would be, a real sense of accomplishment, and with others!

I wonder what rises up within people to attempt a marvellous feat as amazing as this one?

Do they have thoughts of, ‘What if I die? What is the ropes and harnesses don’t hold? What if I plummet to my death?’

I am sure they would have these thoughts, but alongside the realistic thoughts comes the, ‘But the risk is worth it, so why not?’ And as they get into the ‘groove’ of such thinking, the ‘how’ with all of the safety considerations falls into place.

Enter in, this quote from American literary genius, Mark Twain:

‘The fear of death follows the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.’

I reckon the picture above are adventurers who have fully embraced this quote. The fact the possibility of death is a very real possibility, maybe makes the climb even more exhilierating.

And when they get to the top, life in all of its abundance and wonder.

But I am not a daring adventurer. I suppose I would love to be, but the picture above is probably too much of a stretch.

So what happens then?

Well, we can look for adventure in other ways. Maybe we find success in our careers and enjoy the financial reward that often comes from such effort. You aim for that corner office and the red sports car.

You work really really hard and you get there … and um … well what now.

I would argue that the adventure is not in the destination, but more importantly in the journey. Life happens in the small connection moments.

I can think of a classic empty and hollow victory moment in the last Harry Potter movie. If you don’t want to know, feel free to stop reading here.

The scene was at Hogwarts, and Voldelmort thought he had killed Harry Potter. He screamed in exultation, but as he looked around for some resonance, there was a silence.

Very hollow and empty.

In fact it was Neville Longbottom who declared that it did not matter, as his friends were together. There was pity for Vodelmort at this point.

Neville Longbottom had a journey of companionship with others. Voldelmort had a journey based on fear, and in the process literally lost his soul.

None of us want that!

So in these small moments that happen every day, appreciate them and cherish them.

Take every opportunity to give back and make a positive difference in your part of the world.

The moments and giving back are part of the adventure. If we think about the picture above, I wonder what small moments had taken place leading up to this point, and how they contributed to then end and exultant stand at the top? And how they worked together?

Yes life does have an end point which keeps it all in perspective. But at the same time there is living to do, no matter your age.

This commentary in this blog is intended to be general in nature. It is just some observations from one fellow traveller in life to another. If anything in this blog raises issues for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or consult with a trusted medical professional.

Photo by Sylvain Mauroux on Unsplash