There are many kinds of mountains that we face in our lives. Some are physical, some are mental, but they all impact who we are, how we feel, and what we do. The last two years have been difficult for me, both mentally and physically. One thing I’ve learned is that I may cover up how I feel to others, but I can’t hide from myself—and that it is okay!

After months of ignoring how I was feeling, I had to take a step back and realize that I wasn’t invincible. I was human and human bodies, and their stubborn brains sometime needs some TLC. After years of pushing and pushing myself, they both went into rebellion. I won’t say it was pretty, or that I gave in gracefully. In fact, I slowed down so much I was watching turtles pass me—but; you guessed it! That’s okay!

I remember once when my husband and I were out hiking how guilty I felt holding him back. I knew he could reach our destination in a fraction of the time and told him to go on, that I would catch up. He stopped, held my hand, and told me it wasn’t about reaching the end of the trail that matter to him, it was being able to go on the journey with me. At that moment, I knew that I often forgot that part. Yes, reaching the top of the mountain, whatever that mountain may be, may seem exciting, but the genuine memories come from the winding path and the obstacles we overcome to reach it—and the people who walk beside us.

I’m taking time to explore the path, writing songs, writing stories, creating animated films, and sharing walks with my friends and family. I’m taking this mountain one step at a time and enjoying the journey. I’ll get there because I don’t know how to give up. It may take a while, but that’s okay—I’ll get there when I get there and have a lot more fun when I do.

So, the next time you face your mountain, or if you are facing it now, remember to pause, be kind to yourself, enjoy watching the turtles pass you by, and don’t worry—you’ll get there. You’ll just take a little longer… but that’s okay.

Hugs,
Susan