A Hike to Remember

 The Crazy Adventure of Gratitude: 

Doing something crazy and getting away with it isn’t just fun it’s therapy. It’s also a lesson that nudges you to embrace life, shake things up, and refuel your spirit. Speaking of self-love, here’s a thought: What do you do for yourself? Not for your job, family, or friends but just for you, the very essence of who you are. Sounds weird, right? Stay with me. You see, you can only pour into others from a full cup, not an empty one.

Today, I poured into my cup with a thrilling hike up Aco Mountain in Lugbe, Abuja, organized by Naija Adventure. The weather was perfect, and the experience was everything I didn’t know I needed.

Morning Bliss

The day started beautifully. I woke up, greeted by the sight of my lovely plant. This little green companion keeps my room’s air fresh, and every time I see it, my heart swells with gratitude. Yes, I even kissed it don’t judge me!

As the sun rose, I sat in reflection, basking in its golden rays. Watching the sunrise always fills me with love and joy. It’s like a divine reset button for the soul. With a heartfelt prayer on my lips, I whispered, “Masha Allah Tabarakallah” (May God bless and increase this beauty).

The Hike Hustle

The previous day, I told my friend Bas, “Let’s hike it’s the weekend!” His response? A flat-out no because his car was in the workshop. Vic gave me the same excuse. I wasn’t about to take no for an answer.

This morning, after a fierce back-and-forth debate via chat, I literally went to Bas’s house and dragged him out. We hopped into a regular cab and headed to the second meeting point. There, we waited for the rest of the group.

At the meeting point, I exchanged pleasantries with familiar faces and struck up a long conversation with a fellow adventurer, Jude, about his business struggles. Turns out, hiring committed young folks these days is tough. Everyone wants quick money, but no one wants to grow something long-term.

The Mountain Beckons

Finally, we arrived at Aco Mountain, and it greeted us in all its majestic glory. The sight of the triple rock formations made my heart leap, but our guide led us past them to an even grander spectacle. Monkeys darted through the trees, but these “social animals” quickly vanished apparently, we weren’t their kind of crowd!

The hike began on a breezy note. I even managed to do an Instagram Live session at the start, but midway, things got real. I tightened my grip, braced myself, and focused. This was no walk in the park more like a cardio-intense leg workout.

At one point, I overheard someone say, “The ladies are going to turn back.” I shot him a look that screamed, Excuse me? “All the ladies are coming,” I said firmly. “No one’s turning back.” And guess what? We didn’t.

Climbing Challenges

As we climbed higher, the mountain revealed its challenges. Burnt grass and dry tree branches lined the path, forcing us to tread carefully. Some trekkers in short sleeves regretted their fashion choices as the scorched vegetation scratched their arms.

I channelled my inner Spider-Man at one point, gripping rocks and manoeuvring with precision. The climb wasn’t just a workout for my body it was a symphony of my heart, lungs, and respiratory system working in harmony. And trust me, they were singing with joy.

After about 35 minutes, we reached the summit. The view? Breath-taking. Below us lay the sprawling expanse of Lugbe, dotted with estates under construction. Two women caught my eye as they chopped down a tree with axes. I sat for a while, mesmerized by their strength and rhythm.

Rest, Dance, and Reflection

We spent about an hour at the top, soaking in the views, laughing, and dancing. Oh, the dancing! A tall guy who clearly loves to groove led the charge, pulling everyone into his orbit of energy. Even Bas joined in. The scene turned into a mini dance-off, with some people flexing muscles and others cracking us up with funny moves.

The descent was a whole new adventure. We took a different route, which balanced the climb perfectly. It was a full-body reset mind and body in sync.

Lessons from the Mountain

Hiking isn’t just about conquering nature; it’s a metaphor for life. Here are some lessons I took home:

Stay Present and Mindful

Often, we operate on autopilot, missing out on life’s subtle joys. On the mountain, every step required caution and awareness. It reminded me to be present in relationships, at work, and in everyday moments.

Embrace Challenges

Obstacles are inevitable. Whether it’s a burnt tree in your path or a steep incline, the choice is yours: turn back or find a way through. Asking for help isn’t weakness it’s wisdom.

Do What Fills Your Cup

You can’t always wait for someone to join you in what you love. If they do, celebrate them. If they don’t, appreciate them anyway and carry on.

Grateful for the Adventure

This hike wasn’t just an activity it was a gift I gave myself. It reminded me of the beauty of doing something for me. Hiking refuels my spirit and makes me whole, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

A Note for the Week Ahead

As we step into a new week, let’s remember to be kind to ourselves and others. Fill your cup so you can pour into others. Do something that makes your heart sing, even if it’s as simple as a walk, a book, or a moment of silence.

Wishing you a beautiful and fulfilling week ahead!