Everest Base Camp // Personal

2019 has been a rocky climb. Laden with baggage from previous climbs, challenging obstacles and terrains, multiple junctions/crossroads and life-changing decisions. Through a series of treacherous uphills, curse-filled downhills, we were occasionally treated to a splendor of the beautiful valley and mountain.

Sharing our pain, we meet strangers along the way. Some became friends and the others whose name we forget. Through them, we learn of their life and experiences. Some whom we envied, in others we learnt empathy.

As the days passed, we grew tired and wary. Gone were the excitement and zest we carried for most of our trip. As the air thin, and our breath grew heavy, we dragged our heavy body up the remaining climb. Accustomed and oblivious to the beautiful sight that surrounds us.

Slowly but surely, we finally arrived at the summit, only to draw breaths of relief. It wasn’t the same sense of euphoria we thought we will experience when we first set off. Definitely not the overwhelming sense of pride you feel when you dash through the finishing line of a 100m race. Instead, we felt relieved. Relieved that we made it through alive.

3 months later, here I am, sitting in a cafe, reliving the experience of my Everest Base Camp Hike. As I scroll through the pictures, I feel a sudden sense of shame and regret. In my quest to make it to the summit, I have missed out on so many meaningful conversations, beautiful views, and life experiences.

In fact, that has how 2019 has been for me. A rat race to the end of the year. Relieved I’ve made it to end alive. Excited to embark on another new year, with a long list of resolutions. But how long can we ride on this excitement and adrenaline for? Before we grow tired and wary again.

As we embark on this new year, I hope we can slow down, water and nourish the relationship we are already in, chat up with a stranger, stop and appreciate the view, and learn something new. It probably won’t be easy. In fact, it might be the worse year ever. But at the end of it all, I hope we can all end the year with joy and thanksgiving. And not with a sigh of relief.

Camera: Leica M6
Lens: ZEISS Distagon T* 35mm f/1.4 ZM Lens
Film: Fuji C200 and Kodak Portra 400