“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together.” – James Cash Penney

Today was the most physically challenging day of the trip, and for some, of our lifetimes. While we were excited for the endless panoramic views of the Drakensberg Mountains, many of us felt the weight of the 13km hike ahead. Prepared with bellies full of granadilla yogurt and instant coffee, backpacks of water bottles and binoculars, and feet snuggly tucked into hiking boots, the 18 of us started the trek with our guides, Geoff and Teri.

The first kilometer of the trail was already no joke as a steep decline into the gorge from camp had us thinking, “we have to come back UP this??” After about an hour, our large group began to stretch like a slinky. As an out-and-back trail, you reach a point of no return. Our wide variety of ages, strengths, and athletic abilities started to challenge us. Geoff helped encourage us that even if we’re tired, we could still do more, but we also learned valuable lessons in listening to our bodies.

This trip has been an exceptional moment of pause for so many of us, which is ironic given our sunrise to sunset (and beyond!) daily itineraries. We’ve challenged ourselves since our first orientation in April to unplug and focus inward. We’ve been vulnerable with each other since we met at the airport 8 days ago, and open about what we need in order to experience success each day, whether that’s a nap, an ice cream bar, or someone to process the day with. Today, we saw 18 people with 18 different goals and finish lines. Some people were determined to make it to the gorge 6.5km away. Some knew their body might have some limitations, and were open to asking for breaks or help. Some were fulfilled by finding a perfect rock to relax on and reflect. What transpired was a clear example of teamwork and cheerleading. We helped our walking buddy scale rock “steps,” carried heavy binoculars for each other, and shared snacks. Leaders selflessly walked back and forth delivering lunches and guiding different groups to meet their own finish lines. As the gorge group made their way back along the trail, the three groups slowly regathered and shared their individual experiences of the day. Once we powered up the last steep climb at the end (or beginning) of the trail, we rewarded ourselves with our favorite South African sweets and sodas, yoga, and a pizza dance party.