Today was a special day for multiple reasons. First, it was Easter. Second, it also happened to be my parent’s anniversary. Third, it was the climb of Turtlehead peak in Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas as part of the Master’s training. It is a total of 2.3 miles up (one way), and climbs nearly 2000 feet to the top. It is definitely not for the faint of heart. I expected the burn in my legs as we climbed, but did not take into consideration that the top of the peak is 6322 ft in elevation. I’ve never trained in high altitude before, so I can check that off my bucket list. Part way along the trail, there was a larger open area, and we all changed into uniforms for a brief workout and some group pictures. Then we all continued for the next 2-2.5 hours to the top. At the top, we again changed into uniforms for more pictures. I’ve never climbed a mountain, or even done any really serious hiking before.
Today’s image is one I took from the base of Turtlehead. We have a philosophy for each belt rank and there are two that come to mind today. At purple belt, the philosophical meaning is “Coming to the mountain. The tree is in mid growth, and now the path becomes steep”. Yup….nailed that one today. At 4th degree, the philosophical meaning is “Crest of granite mountain”. The view was impressive, mostly knowing that I (partially) got over a big fear of heights to make the climb today.
I’m looking forward to being back home, to share all the things I learned out here this week.
See ya tomorrow!