Random thoughts

The Other Side

I did my usual ritual today - got home from work, had dinner and then went straight to the climbing gym. This time though, I went climbing with Debra, a friend who is simply starting out and discovering climbing for herself. It's odd being the teacher instead of the student - I got so used to just listening to advice and tips from more experienced climbers. So I was at first at a loss as to what to tell her. I felt awkward checking her knots, and calling out advice to her from the bottom. I didn't feel as though I was qualified to actually be teaching someone quite yet.

It felt pretty good to know that I helped in some way though. Debra seemed like she really enjoyed the session. And everyone else I knew at the gym helped out in their own way, so it really made it more enjoyable.

The truth of the matter is that sometimes I think part of the reason I'm addicted to climbing is because of the people I get to hang out with at the gym. Everyone's so positive and so supportive, that it's so easy to progress and to succeed. It's definitely an environment I wouldn't mind being in all the time.

posted by Cathy at 11:16 PM