Karsana mountain

Which of the favors of my Lord will I deny? NONE!

If you’ve ever missed the break of dawn, you’re missing one of life’s greatest blessings. The sun rises daily, but there’s no guarantee we’ll rise with it. Today, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude grateful for my resilient mind and body, grateful for new challenges to conquer, and grateful for a new hiking friend.

My mentor always says, "There will always be a valid excuse not to achieve your goals or pursue your dreams.” That truth echoed in my mind as I stepped out for my hike today. But first, I took a moment to shower my plants with love and care. After all, they need nurturing too.

This weekend, my usual hiking buddies weren’t available, so I reached out to a friend to hitch a ride. Thankfully, they said yes! We met by the lakeside, joined the hiking crew, and headed for the summit at Karsana.

Now, let me tell you a bit about Karsana. Located northwest of Abuja’s city center, it’s one of the few districts in Phase 4 undergoing rapid development. Karsana has four neighborhoods: North, East, South, and West, with most development happening in Karsana East. The mountain we hiked stood majestically, almost as if it were saying, “Welcome to my trail, adventurers!”

After parking and securing the vehicles, we got our tickets. (Yes, hiking here isn’t free. It’s just a token of ₦1,000, but don’t act surprised nothing is free these days!)

Ten minutes into the hike, we faced a steep incline that had many hikers gasping for air and reaching for their water bottles. As for me? I was also breathing heavily but pretending to be unbothered. Who goes hiking while treating malaria, if not me? (Clearly, I love chaos.)

On the way, I spotted a young lady clutching her waist with a face full of regret. She looked like she was mentally drafting an excuse to quit. I asked if she was okay. She wasn’t. So, a seasoned hiker (Mr Oscar) helped her along with mine she in the middle so we kept climbed. Together, we trudged on for 35 minutes until we reached the first resting point. There, we hydrated and rested briefly before continuing.

Now, let me confess: I did question my sanity for attempting a hike while on meds. But I knew staying home would have made me feel worse. So, I reframed my thoughts, imagined myself sprinting up the mountain like a superhero, and regained my energy.

The Summit and the Drama

It took us about an hour to reach the summit. And let me tell you, the feeling when you finally make it is unmatched! I found a cozy spot to sit but soon moved to a higher incline for a broader view of the environment. From there, I could see Efab and other estates what a sight!

While we relaxed, taking pictures and sipping juice, a little drama unfolded. My new hiking friend discovered her water feeder had leaked, soaking her bag. As she unpacked to dry her things, she realized her car key was missing. Panic set in.

Calmly, we retraced her steps. Through a series of questions, she remembered she had left the key in the car. Imagine her relief when we descended quickly (in record time, less than 45 minutes!) and found her car safe and sound with the key inside.

Shoutout to Mr. Oscar, the real MVP, who helped her down the mountain with kind words and calmness. Meanwhile, I gave moral support from behind, running down like a mini mountain goat-in-training. The adrenaline rush? Chef’s kiss.

Food Adventures

On our way back, we stopped to try antelope meat and grasshoppers. (Yes, you read that right.) The antelope meat tasted surprisingly good almost like goat meat but sweeter. As for the grasshoppers… well, let’s just say I’m still processing that experience.

Oh, and I got a surprise gift! I won’t tell you what it is, though, because I want it to stay safe and sound. (Don’t judge me.)

Lessons from the Trail

Every hike teaches me something new. Reflecting on today’s experience, I feel immense gratitude for my health, body, and mind. They’ve been patient with me, even when I’ve pushed them to their limits.

My new hiking friend also shared an interesting thought. She had planned to avoid talking to anyone on the trail (only her second hike ever how ambitious!). But life had other plans. She admitted she was lucky to meet the right people myself and Mr. Oscar, the day’s heroes.

A reminded how overthinking can sometimes mislead us. She thought she’d locked her car after ensuring everyone had left, but the opposite was true. Life happens, but most times, it works out in our favor if we view it through a lens of gratitude.

Post-Hike Reflections

No matter the challenges, pain, or setbacks, hold on and stay strong. Things will get better. Don’t rely too much on others, but also remember you’re never truly alone. For me, hiking is a mental reset. It boosts my spirit and reminds me to trust the process.

To everyone who made it to the trail today, especially the Naija Adventurers crew you’re amazing! Your strength and dedication are inspiring. Special props to the team who climbed the summit and then went back to guide latecomers (University of Abuja students) up the trail.

After the hike, I got home, said a quick prayer, and attempted to rest. My neighbor was heading to the market, so I pleaded with him to get me some vegetables for soup. (Shoutout to kind neighbors!) Despite being exhausted, I managed to whip up the soup and felt proud of myself.

So, that’s how my Saturday went. What about yours? I hope you’re having a restful weekend!

Remember, no matter what, keep moving, keep holding on, and most importantly, trust the process.

P.S. Next time you’re feeling low, try a hike or at least something that challenges you. It might just be the reset you need.