South_Aussie_Hiker wrote:I get the impression from your writing that as you age, you are beginning to appreciate more and more what your parents have done for you.
That's certainly the way it was for me. I hiked a lot recently with my Dad, and even though I'm heavily goal oriented, just being out there and spending time with him was all the reward I needed - summit or no summit.
And you hut friend is right - your Dad made a wise choice. We see constant stories on bushwalk.com of people who did not make smart decisions. I'd rather regret not climbing a mountain, than regret climbing it.
And wait until you have your own kids - that will further morph and shape your views on your own parents, and forces you to cherish them.
Wow, I'm getting soppy in my old age!
You are getting soppy!
No, you're right. A couple years back, it all hit me at once. As parents, they have just been incredible, in every sense of the word. I still slip up from time to time, but it's an honour to share these experiences with the old man. My parents gave everything to me, they nurtured me and I'm becoming the man I want to be.
You're right about turning back. As I pointed out, Pelion West was the eye-opener for me in that sense. If you haven't read that one yet, here's the link:
https://sambochristie.wordpress.com/2016/02/19/olt3/ (shameless plug).
Thanks for reading!
Sam.