Good morning Exer’s!!
Though the sun always shines on the summit of my imaginary mountain of freedom, it doesn’t always look that way. In fact from the bottom, where the journey begins it can look quite ominous with thunderheads hiding the summit, shrouding the upper slopes in mist.
Still, even then I knew there was nothing but beauty at the top. Nothing but glorious freedom waiting for me. I stared at the slopes of that mountain for many months before I put down my last cigarette and slowly began trudging up the slopes. Looking up, the slopes seemed unfamiliar and as such kind of scary. But still, I put one foot in front of the other and embarked upon my journey to freedom.
After the first steps, I gained some confidence, aware that though there is still a long journey ahead I had taken those first steps. I was learning the craft of climbing (or quitting an Addiction in this case). Though the journey seemed so long and hard, I continued trudging upward until the mists cleared and I could see my prize shining in the sun high above me for the first time!
The beautiful summit of Mt. Freedom! And what a sight it was! I stared ahead knowing in my heart that I would make it. That one day I would stand on the summit of this formidable mountain and wave the banner of freedom high over my head for all to see. To inspire others with the prize that we all seek.
But first I still had a bit to go. Often I would look down the slopes to see how far I’d already come and this would give me the confidence and desire to push on. Sure, there were some bad moments on the climb. That’s just the nature of it. But with determination we navigate each boulder field. We test each snow field before stepping on it because to do otherwise might mean a slip and a fall down the slopes.
Inside we know that we’re getting closer and that with the knowledge that each step of the journey gives us, we grow inside. We grow more confident. We believe even more that we will reach that prize of freedom.
So though the journey may seem long. Though it may seem scary at times, it’s still a journey that we have chosen to take. It is a goal of ours to live a more healthy life. To see our loved ones grow older. To find a renewed belief in ourselves.
But it all starts with the first faltering step. And then it continues with each day that we stay true to the journey. With each day that we renew our commitment for that journey. With each day that we stare our addiction in the face and say that we’re not slaves. We’re not fooled any longer. We no longer listen to the addiction but rather to freedom!
Keep your eye on the prize and before long the journey will be but a memory . . .
Chuck
