I was standing on the edge of a 40m-deep cliff of Niludhan Falls. I tried to tame my nerves. It was my first time to rappel down a cliff and you could only imagine how it was not difficult to start overthinking. My entire life was at stake!
I checked my harness. I checked it again. And for the third time, checked the lines my entire weight would be relying on. I even practiced on letting my weight down little by little with the ropes the facilitators have arranged on a tree branch for first-timers like me.
And it hit me. I realized that what I would be embarking on is more than just a physical feat. This was more than just maneuvering down a gushing falls. This is more of an emotional and psychological challenge. When I would be dangling down midway on the falls, I could only rely on one thing - trust. I should be able to trust that I can carry my weight down and successfully control the ropes. I should be able to trust in the system, that the harness they have arranged will not fail in any moment.
Curiously, I noticed that even the experienced mountain climbers with me had a sense of hesitation. Fear hormones instantly whispered to my extremities and I greeted coldness like an old friend.
It was my turn. I positioned myself on the cliff, faking a smile for the camera. Inch by inch, I was moving away from the cliff, battling the rope for me to move down. Fear and excitement was mixed with the cold feel of the water batting on my skin.
The view at bottom was majestic! The mist right before the water hits the bottom created a faint rainbow almost so close to touch. It was even made more precious by the price I had to pay to enjoy the view. Rappelling down was a good exercise for the heart and for the mind.
My takeaway, while there is great accomplishment in rising, it takes as much courage, strength, trust, and perseverance in the downward journey! Achievement unlocked right there!