Q. Why do you climb mountains?

A. Hillary, in response to why he climbed Mt. Everest, replied, "Because it's there." Many people don't realize this was a sarcastic answer because he was tired of getting asked the why question. My response is so I can walk in more elegant balance and peaceful pace on the ground.

Q. Why do you jump down into caves?

A. Well, if I tip-toed down, I could meet my death more safely. If I jump, maybe I could surprise it and scare it away, for now. Anyhow, death and I will meet again someday and I would rather jump on its back and ride it out and have it carry my weight than vice versa.

Q. Why did you jump out of a perfectly good airplane?

A. To gain a new perspective of myself and how I feel in a threatening situation, and for the joy of knowing I would not have to do it again.

Q. Why ran class III rapids in an open canoe?

A. To remind my ego that it's all wet and I am not really in charge of my life, and that no one else is either. I can't do it by pushing the river. I do it by surrendering and trusting my harmony with the water's ways.

Q. Is anyone in charge at all?

A. Yes, He Who knows the exact number of hairs on my wet head.

Q. Why deliberately subject yourself to the problems of others and unnecessary life challenges?

A. Every problem and challenge has a hidden gift in it. I need gifts to nurture and grow? Got one for me?

Q. What made you want to learn rappelling off of cliffs?

A. So I could rappel halfway down this particular cliff and cement a stone angel to a ledge.

Q. Come again?

A. It's a long story. Believing in the unseen and divine intervention would make explaining it much faster.

Q. What is the most important thing to you?

A. Asking myself that question on awakening everyday and living the answer. If you can't tell by watching me, thank you for reminding me to check on how I am doing.
 

Environmental Experiences, Inc.
John S. Hilkevich, Ph.D., Director
www.prayergear.com
counserv@aol.com