Confessions

Many people will never understand how mountaineering changed my life.

Peeps who've known me since birth will never understand how someone with strong and outgoing personality like me would go for a nomad-like lifestyle. Peeps who see me as a pampered princess will never understand why I would choose to live the tough and rough way. Peeps who saw me win beauty titles will never understand how I could survive an unglamorous existence...

My family, who knew me to be a weakling, whiny, clumsy li'l girl will never understand how I am able to survive the harsh mountains they do not even know existed.

My friends, who see me as a people-oriented person, will never understand how I can stand being isolated from civilization for two days.

My enemies, who only know a part of my being, will not understand how I can embrace being humbled.

If I were me a few months ago, I also wouldn't understand why I would want to climb mountains, flee from the comforts of the city life, endure the difficulties of the trail, deprive myself of sumptuous meals, miss the variety show ASAP, embrace the angry rays of the sun and the heavy load of my backpack.

August 28, 2009--I almost killed myself. I saw lots of blood from the wrist I slashed with a razor... I thought it was the end of me. I was in a situation I couldn't believe would happen, and I thought ending my natural order was the only way out. I survived that lame attempt on my life.

Six months after, I got an invitation to climb Pico de Loro. I was hesitant at first as I wasn't willing to give up my comfort zone just yet. But then I survived it and after a few more climbs, I realized that I was stripped off my whims and shallow wants. That's when I realized that holding on to an abusive relationship was just for comfort and childish whims. That's when I realized I could give them up--it might be hard and harsh at first, but I will get used to it after a while. That's when I realized how strong I am, and that I can actually survive on my own... And I did!

I will continue to climb mountains because it strengthens my spirit, it boosts my confidence, and it provides me with learning that the sophistication of the civilized world can't offer. Rest assured that after 20 major climbs and at 35, I will semi-retire and settle for minor walk-in-the park climbs... So, don't worry... I'm willing to compromise... ^_^