I came out of the mountains to the news that a friend died. She was 32. Completely shocked and saddened, I wondered why life is full of so much death. I re-questioned all the risks I take in life. Climbing is a dangerous sport. Even though I work to mitigate those dangers, accidents can and will happen.
Perhaps death is there to remind us about life. What is life without some risk, without passion to do what you love, and living to do it? We all must measure what acceptable risk is. A walk, a ride, a climb, a jump. A person can be struck dead crossing the street. The reality is we have no idea how long we have and in many cases, it’s shorter than we think. If I want to take away something positive from an otherwise tragic end, it’s that every moment is precious — so seize it, because you may not get that second chance.
Let death remind us of life … that every moment is precious.
Rest in peace, my friend. You will be missed.
Well said. This is what is constantly in my mind for the past months ever since my wife died in a rock climbing accident. As a rock climber myself, the tragedy reminds me what life and death mean to myself and those who I love and cherish. Chris’ death painfully remind me of the fragility of life.
On the other hand, I find myself strangely peaceful when solo climbing since my wife passed away. Death no longer seems so dreadful and absolute, but rather an end point to a solemn journey.
I hope you have find your peace to your loss.
Sean, thanks for your comments and support. Every time a loved one dies doing these sort of adventure sports, this issue weighs heavily on my mind as well. It’s probably a natural and healthy thing to re-evaulate, reflect, and gain perspective.
Recently I saw a quote “We all die. Not all of us live.” My friend (and others before her) loved life and tried to get the most out of it. That helps with acceptance and inspires me to try to do the same.
Thanks for reaching out. I also hope you find peace as well. I always find mountains to be a great place to reflect & restore the spirit.