My Passion Of Heights
Every since I was little, I have absolutely loved climbing things. A lot of people are afraid of heights, but I find them delightful and exhilarating. I feel like I am on top of the world and can do anything. So in 4th grade, I started rock climbing and am still doing it.
When I am attempting a new wall, I first survey it. What is the level of the wall? Where are all of the holds? What different body positions and grips do I want to work on? I always try to do levels of walls that are challenging and I have to really calculate all of my moves on. But at the same time, I do not want to climb a wall that is overwhelming and I waste my strength on.
When I am trying out a new move, I first try it on a easy level climb and practice it a lot. I sometimes feel embarrassed if I slip and fall when first attempting it. So I try it out away from people and humiliation.
Sometimes at the rock climbing gym, I feel peer pressure to do a certain climb that I am not comfortable climbing. Especially with bouldering. Bouldering is a type of rock climbing that you do not wear a harness on. Usually I will say, “Sorry that climb is a bit above my level. I will try to work up to it,” or I will give it a go and ask for someone to spot me so I don’t fall and hurt myself. I never like refusing a climb that someone recommends because I feel like they are disappointed in me.
Once, when trying out for a rock climbing team, I broke my knee in the middle of a very hard climb and started crying. I asked for a break and the belayer tightened the rope so I hung in the air. I took a shaky breath and looked down. My friends were giving me the thumbs up. If I was lowered down, I would not make it on the team. I was determined to finish this climb. But how? My vision started going blurry and I was panicking. Focus. Survey. Formulate a plan. But I had to get through this. I swung back onto the wall and started hopping up the wall. Before every move, I looked up and down to get footing. After 5 more agonizing minutes. I reached the top. I pumped my fist. I did it! The belayer lowered me down and she said,” Congratulations."
Rock climbing has become a part of my identity. It’s who I am. I hope to continue rock climbing as I get older. Rock walls are like life. As you ascend through it, there will be challenges and bumps. But eventually, you make it to the top.
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