So it’s been two years, almost to the day, that I set out on my last fundraising trek for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
Kokoda was by far, the most challenging yet. Not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually. That was one hell of a ride and you know what? I would do it all again in a heartbeat.
It’s funny how you’re conscious of your state of mind when you’re about to embark on a life changing event…I’ve done it a few times now and this latest challenge is no different. You rush about doing last minute things to prepare yourself for an epic adventure and at the same time, you’re aware of the potential impact this impending journey may have on your life going forward. It’s time to stop. Savour the moment. Be present.
My bag is packed… (yes it’s messy) and this time I am more relaxed about the material needs. Kokoda will always be a precedent in life for me, on every level. I find myself thinking, if I can do Kokoda, I can do anything. It’s true, but I should remember this in everyday life and for some reason I don’t. But today, I am bringing that experience front of mind. I’m determined to make it stay there.
On Saturday I am jetting off for my third Westpac Rescue trek. This time to conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Not only are we climbing to around 4,200m above sea level, we are also spending some time in a local community participating in a volunteer project. We’ll be contributing to preserving the environment by planting crops of native trees in a small community near Misminay, just outside of Cuszco. Â Our reforestation efforts will assist with the sustainable supply of water to the area.
Putting down the iPhone, iPad and work computer, stepping away from technology and the crazy internet world and picking up ancient tools will be an experience to savour. We did it in Kokoda and I cannot wait to embrace this feeling again. Songs, dances and traditional toasts await us at the end of our time in the fields… Can you imagine? I’m more than a little bit excited.
A 14 hour flight is ahead of us… I’m looking forward to switching off and taking it all in. One of my favourite Waifs songs (Take it All In) will be ringing in my ears as I step on that plane on Saturday. I’ll be having a beverage or two to celebrate, kicking back and letting our trusty QANTAS pilot/s transport us to Santiago in the most relaxed, book reading, movie watching, people meeting, Phenergan induced uncomfortable sleeping manner possible.
Catch you all on the flipside. There will be more blogs…
Faithfull Living 