From High Heels to Hiking Boots... If the Shoe Fits, Wear It!

She Summits- Kilimanjaro 2014. Why in the world did I decide to do this AGAIN?

In 2012 I climbed Africa's largest mountain with a group of friends from Rotary who committed to climbing Kili for a cause. While raising funds was the foremost reason for climbing, many of us had personal goals for embarking on such a journey. I had an "aha" moment when I realized how I was encouraging others to reach beyond their comfort zones and challenge themselves to grow. Yet, when was the last time I had actually done such a thing? How can I expect others to do what I am not willing to do myself? As the story goes, the Kili opportunity presented itself many times, but after my "aha" moment, it was just the right time. When my awareness and desire for a challenging adventure was met with opportunity, I said yes and began training for a trip of a lifetime.

Climbing Kili was a time to abandon my comfortable cross trainer shoes and beloved high heels to embrace my hiking boots. There's something to said about support from your friends and especially your hiking boots! I needed both! Climbing Kili led me along trails, both mentally and physically, I had never before explored. Kili was quite the playground to practice some professional training in mindfulness and centered awareness. It was...
A time to be still, although I was hiking.
A time to relax, although my heart beat at a cardio pace.
A time to explore my thoughts going down the winding road of my mind while embracing the scene of discovery, although I was filled with apprehension and fear.
A time to fellowship with friends and develop camaraderie, although the journey was intimately personal.
A time to accomplish my personal goals, although I was part of a larger goal.

As Max Lucado said, "The sweetest satisfaction lies not in climbing your own Everest [or Kilimanjaro], but in helping others climb theirs." It is the larger goal that has led me to Kili 2014 with a desire to create an opportunity for other women to choose their challenge embracing the experience to live life completely full... full of courage, full of faith, full of commitment, full of compassion, full of fellowship, full of gratitude, and full of life. Discovering the world and choosing to grow through a mindful journey climbing the majestic Mt Kilimanjaro is transformational personal leadership.

Is it your time to say, "Yes"?

Join the journey!

FMI... see the She Summits-Kilimanjaro 2014 Facebook page.