Community
noun
- a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests
This past weekend, November 2nd - 4th, 2018, ten individuals went up to the Adirondack Region of New York, more specifically Lake Placid - where they planned to embark on a journey up one of the 46 High Peaks. Phelps Mountain, 32nd highest in New York State was the prized destination for the weekend. To what extent this adventure would provide the individuals with, will vary from person to person, but nonetheless there was a common theme that would lead each human up there that weekend; community. The word community in this sense is what caused these 6 retreat goers and 4 hosts to buy into not only their own adventure seeking desires, but to take interest in others goals and ambitions as well.
Hiking an Adirondack 46er is no small feature (pun intended), but hiking it in a November snowstorm with 10 people, some who had never even spoken before, let alone climb a mountain in the elements, is something that will last forever. The camaraderie shared amongst this group, before, during and after the hike is the true definition of community. Whether it's finding your own personal will power to push you through tough times, lending a helping hand to a stranger or comrade in times of need or simply being there to celebrate and cherish a hard days work TOGETHER are all valuable lessons to be taken away. The sense of winning is great solo; the feeling of accomplishment as a group is even better. Cohesiveness and the ability to share these moments with people from all different backgrounds is so much sweeter when done together.
As a member of TAP (team adventure portal), it was one of the more memorable moments hiking up in the area for myself - a place in which I have known about for 25+ years. To build interest, create a buzz, and ultimately execute a plan in which 6 hard working, magnificent and trusting people conquered a 4,100' peak, has been one of the most fulfilling moments I can think of. Everyone at one moment or another had to put their faith in each other to make this thing truly run as smoothly as possible. And that's why community is so amazing, because it's about people coming together, working hard to accomplish a goal together, no matter how big, tall, or snowy it might be. So for those of you who participated this weekend - we thank you; and to those in the future, we looking forward to sharing the journey with you!