Change the World

    Spirit of the Mountain

    2018

    We climb, not because the mountain is there
    But because there is great joy in climbing
    We climb, not because we want to conquer the peaks
    But because we want to test our own limits
    We climb, not because ascending is easy or direct
    But because it is a struggle that strengthens us

    The summit is wherever we want to go
    Knowing that we will have to work to get there
    The summit is whatever we dream of becoming
    Knowing that every step we take brings us closer
    The summit is however we envision a better world
    Knowing that all change begins with us

    We rest, not because we are defeated
    But because we like to savour the view
    We rest, not because we are weak or soft
    But because we respect the rhythms of life
    We rest, not because we wish to stop
    But because we plan to go on even longer

    The mountain is every barrier before us
    Knowing that our body can rise to the challenge
    The mountain is every opportunity ahead
    Knowing that our mind is a source of great power
    The mountain is every aspiration we nurture
    Knowing that our spirit is the crucible of creation

    — Wayne Visser