Patience ... value the very small things

[Skinnyjonny]

Patience

Our present lockdown situation got me thinking about the similarities with my high altitude expeditions around the world over the last 30 years or so. My last expedition was only 6 months ago in October/November (32 days in the High Himalayas) attempting to climb Annapurna IV (7525m) which is the 47th highest mountain in the world.

The attached photograph was a really, really happy day at Annapurna IV Base Camp … SHOWER & WASH DAY!!⛺ After 15 days of snow, ice and cold climbing up and down to High Camps 1 and 2 we returned to Base Camp to assist acclimatisation … and the sun came out … and we could take a shower and wash our dirty, smelly clothes. Total luxury.

In expeditions you learn to value the very small things like hot water, a bed, fresh food, a cup of tea or even the smell of the grass!! You become patient … even for a lukewarm shower! Absolutely wonderful. A beautiful experience after so much hardship.

The present quarantine is about that … be patient 🙏🏼. Even if it takes a long time, the sun always comes out

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Very true...and hopefully we will appreciate a calmer way of life in times to come!

[Constance13 in reply to DorsetLady]

Puts everything into perspective, doesn't it?

Mind you I have had a "calm" life for a long time before the virus. I daren't get any calmer!!

Time will tell how we cope!

[whitefishbay]

Wow. What a photo. You have an incredible cv. 👍🏻

[Lonsdalelass]

Thank you for helping to put these hard times in perspective. You're absolutely right. We have so much to be thankful for.

[Grammy80]

I just happened upon your post which led me to read your 'journey'~what phenomenal persistence and perseverance. Also, you experienced the most by climbing and working with the least. (Not that I could do it but I can be in awe!) Less is more. Good for you, I think you will always be just fine!!

Hopefully, the world will not go back to being the same.