Business Dictionary.Com defines risk as 1. A probability or threat of damage, injury, liability, loss, or other negative occurrence that is caused by external or internal vulnerabilities, and that maybe avoided through preemptive action 2. Finance: The probability that an actual return on an investment will be lower than the expected return. Oftentimes, our human system will be on a red alert upon hearing or learning the risk at stake for an action or decision that we are about to make. With its stigma we tend to avoid it.
But what if we can still expose ourselves to a loss or injury after we have carefully assessed the advantages and disadvantages? Are you willing to take the leap of faith? That’s what I’ve experience when I took the Mt. Ulap challenge.
An emerging popular trekking destination, Mt. Ulap is situated at Itogon, Benguet. The mountain offers pine and grassland, magnificent view of sunrise or sunset (depends on what time you start the climb) and very refreshing weather that will comfort you as you trek. The trail poses a combination of uphill and downhill but on the exit point a challenging downhill trail will test your balance and endurance.
I have hesitation when I said “Yes” when I got invited. Weeks before the climb, my physical, mental and emotional state was in chaos. I was involved in a big IT project and the request was really so demanding. I usually prepare for this kind of trip, but because of the schedule there is no way for me to do my usual mantra. I started to review the pros and cons of undertaking this trip. Then I re-affirmed my “yes.”
We registered and met our local guide at barangay hall of Ampucao. Still dark, we passed through a community, and then headed to the trail proper. The weather is very cold and I had to put on three layers of clothing to keep me warm. The start of the climb was uphill; I start to feel early exhaustion in which I’ve attributed to lack of preparation. Took a pause, few breaths and conditioned my mind that I can do this. Realizing that the exhaustion that I felt was triggered by anxiety, I begin to feel the strength that I need to keep me going.
Sunrise welcomed us as we tread along. Seeing that majestic rays of the sun, my psyche starts de-cluttering unwanted thoughts and feelings that piled up inside. I no longer feel afraid of my decision; I know it’s one of the best.
We took an early lunch. I brought along few crackers because of I know it will be sufficient for the rest of the trip. Friends offered some snacks too. I begin to appreciate that some people or situation will be there and give you additional support even if you think that what you have is already sufficient. It was a fulfilling experience.
The hardest part of the trip was the exit in Sta. Fe ridge. It was a downhill and very steep trail. I’m not a fan of downhill trail because of the risk of falling or sliding. Subconsciously falling or sliding for me is a sign of failure. Thanks to our local guide he handed an improvised trekking stick. And seeing that my bag is too big and is affecting my balance, he offered a helping hand. I was able to complete the trek without any injury. I did experience few slips but it never felt as a failure. It is part of the risk I took but was able to mitigate the negative outcome of falling.
I started fast and finished slow. I picked up that in life, one must learn to venture on risk but the calculated one. You’ll be surprised how sweet the result is and how proud you can be because you are brave to take the big change.
Soul Journer - (Travel and Build Dreams) 