Even though we’ve reached late May and have been taunted by the prospect of summer for a few weeks now, it’s currently 42 degrees, raining, gusting winds up to 45 mph, and snow is in the forecast here at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The outlook for the next few days is more of the same. As we’re eyeballing backcountry permits and the possibilities against what we’re willing to endure and what could be too dicey to warrant the risk, I’m reminded of the words a wise man once shared with me: “Just go take a look at it.”
The more time you spend in seasonal jobs, the more you’ll hear ambitious weekend plans unfolding for yourself and your colleagues: “We’re going to climb the Grand”, “We’re going to trail run the Wonderland”, “We’re gonna bike Trail Ridge Road”, etc. One of the greatest benefits of working seasonal jobs in great places is you’ll have the opportunity to push yourself, to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and to spend your weekends doing things that some people have to plan for years to accomplish. We think you should all go for it.
But during your time in your great places, you’ll also likely see some unfortunate outcomes as a result of folks being overly committed to an end result, as opposed to taking joy from the attempt itself. That’s where the words of wisdom above come in. Whatever the goal, whatever the grand attempt, commit yourself to “just go take a look at it,” and if it looks good, go for it. If it doesn’t look good, turn around, get home safe, and start planning that next shot.
Have a big time out there, take care of yourselves, and each other. Big nature gives and takes – give it the respect it deserves, and in time, you’ll be checking off more and more of those dream trips.
“It’s not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. It’s because we dare not venture that they are difficult.” — Seneca
“My life is so much richer now because of these experiences, and I am continuously eager for what may be ahead. If you’re wondering what it would be like, I have to admit that there aren’t enough pictures, blogs, or folks out there to bring you the message. I waited in my little cubicle for a sign until one day I was either brave enough or crazy enough, but I will never be grateful enough for having taken that leap. To any reader feeling a hint of wanderlust, a pinch of adventure, and a healthy dose of fear, I hope you take the chance to build the future you envision. So long as you carry a willingness within yourself, adventure will always be waiting.”
