As I write, a group of Kiliens is training on Mont-Royal. Unable to be there, I'm using the time to share my feelings 85 days before departure.
In 85 days, we'll be on the plane to Tanzania for the experience we've been dreaming about for over 17 months.
During these months of dreaming about Kilimanjaro, we've read about it, we've discussed it with people who've been there, we've watched videos about it. In spite of all that, I still feel as if I'm setting out into the unknown although I also feel as if the period of preparation is ending.
Of course, there's still plenty to do before reaching the start of the adventure. For me, that will be when I'm actually sitting on the plane. We have Mounts Jefferson and Washington to climb at the end of June. There are still purchases to be made. We have to maintain our fitness right up till the last minute. But the path that was so uncertain at the beginning is now becoming a reality.
Let me explain myself. When I answered the call to participate in the Kilimanjaro project, I was literally jumping into the unknown. I didn't have the money to finance the trip, I had practically no experience in mountain trekking, I wasn't in bad shape but was far from being fit enough for such an undertaking. All I had was a small voice telling me that I had to go, that it was the right time and that I'd find a way to succeed.
My inner voice continued to talk to me and to guide me through the adventure. When we decided to add voluntary work to the project, I had to make a conscious decision to commit to it. I wasn't a born voluntary worker. Like everyone else, I didn't have time. But the voice said "Go for it". That's what I did and I discovered something truly magical with the joy and pride you feel when you give your time for someone else.
When we decided to create a blog, I was reminded how much I love writing and how I could make the most of such an opportunity to get back into it. Another risk - but I'm so happy each time I publish an article on the blog.
I can't even begin to tell you about all I've accomplished in improving my fitness. Only 3 years ago, I smoked like a chimney, was 20 lbs overweight and did nothing for my heart. It's a leap of faith each time I go for a training session and push my muscles further than I ever thought possible.
Each time I decided to listen to my inner voice, I discovered fantastic strengths, people and experiences. I'm no longer the same person I was before signing up for Kilimanjaro 2012. The project has changed me for ever. So, when I said that I felt I was coming to the end of the preparations, I meant that I felt that I had gone the limit with each opportunity that the project gave me. I feel that I've lived the joys and difficulties of each step to the full.
I'm ready! I'm longing to set out for the unknown on the mountain. I'm ready to live the adventure with my friends from Team Kili-2012.
That's how I feel with 85 days to go!
Translated by Pamela Gauvin
