9.14.21 // Humbled

Humbled by the mountains.
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The alps are some of the most intense and gnarly mountains I've had the honor of experiencing.
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From their vertical climbs to their technical descents, the mountains are as beautiful as they are fierce.
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They have been an intense reminder of my abilities, my limits, and my yearnings.
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In a lot of places I've spent time in this summer, I've felt strong. I've felt physically on my game, at least in the capacity that I've needed (able to do long-distance days with @thetravellingtaylor running some and walking most), but the breathtaking mountains which now grace the horizon out my window are an ego-check.
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Usually, if I struggle on a hike or run in the mountains, it leads to internal moping and belittling, but what a terrible way to treat myself and the mountains I want to call home.
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Instead, I'm learning to love the journey. What a cool experience to be able to scramble (no ropes, just throw yourself in the direction of a trail) up a mountain on a Monday morning or stand on a glacier on a Tuesday.
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The mountain doesn't care how you got there, how long it took, how out of breath you were. I believe they are just glad you are there.
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And for the first time... I am too, just glad I'm here.