Projects

Ahh climbing and its metaphors for life…

Some things take time to mature. Projects are started, and at times, do not see their realization until years later.

This rings true for climbing. Routes seem elusive even if you have memorized the sequence in your head. Every bump, thumb catch, and minute crystal engrained in your head. Wired into your psyche. Yet, no matter what you do, the route just does not give in to your need to send.

You let it be. Committing the climb to memory; leaving the crags disheartened. This goes on for years. The line nagging at the back of your mind. Asking you to be on it, but once you are, closes itself off.

Perseverance and the need to send

Often you need to persevere in these scenarios — training harder, eating healthier, and improving local muscle groups — but sometimes you just have to give it time; wait for the right time to send. Time will tell if you are ready for that elusive send.

I recently sent 3 Stitches, 5.12d. I wasn’t expecting to be on it last weekend, but I found myself trying the moves out again. Fortunately, it unlocked this time after 3 goes. This line nagged me for a decade after my last attempt during my college days.

These projects teach one important life lesson: to wait.

Sending is always bittersweet; the euphoria lasts for a little while, but after the celebration and pats-on-the-back by your friends, you move on to another one… and the cycle repeats. Life.