By Khey Geronimo - Batch Agila
In the tapestry of loss and longing, the mountains emerged as my sanctum—a realm where the beauty of nature intertwined with the resilience of the human spirit. As a young widow, my heart sought solace in the embrace of God’s creation, and my profession as an environmentalist became the bridge connecting my love for nature and the path toward healing.
Hiking, an endeavor fueled by my innate love for adventure, became more than a physical pursuit. It became a cathartic experience, a means to divert the ache of losing my first love, my late husband. Each step on the trail was a deliberate choice to exchange sorrow for the serenity found in the rustle of leaves, the whisper of the wind, and the majestic vistas that unfolded with each ascent.
Amidst the peaks and valleys, I discovered a newfound appreciation for the magic of new beginnings. Mountaineering, with its challenges and triumphs, served as a metaphor for life’s journey. The mountains became my companions, witnessing my tears and echoing my laughter. Through the rhythm of my footsteps, I navigated the labyrinth of grief, embracing the possibility of a future not defined by loss but illuminated by the promise of love.
It was within the embrace of the Nueva Ecija Backpackers and Mountaineers Community Inc. that my journey took a transformative turn. Their open arms and shared passion transformed my love for hiking into a mission—a mission to inspire, to teach, and to encourage others to discover the healing power of the mountains. In their company, I found not only companionship but a community that believed in the alchemy of turning passion into purpose.
Gratitude blooms in my heart as I reflect on the generosity of this community. They not only welcomed me into their fold but empowered me to share my journey with others. The teachings and encouragement I received were not just about conquering peaks but conquering the fears that lingered within me—the fear of closing doors to love again, the fear of embracing a new chapter.
Through their guidance, I not only found solace but discovered the strength to open my heart to the possibility of being loved again. The mountains, once a refuge for my grief, transformed into a canvas for new beginnings, and the Nueva Ecija Backpackers and Mountaineers Community Inc. played a pivotal role in this metamorphosis.
In the company of kindred spirits, I realized that passion, when shared, can become a beacon of hope for others. My journey from grief to gratitude is a testament to the transformative power of nature and the collective spirit of a community bonded by a common love for the mountains. As I continue to climb, I carry not only the memory of my late husband but also the resilience to embrace the magic of new beginnings—one step at a time.
