by Taniform Martin Wanki
PureTravel Writing Competition 2023
I live in a small town nestled between towering mountains called Bimbia. From the age of twenty-one, I’d lived a simple life, content with my routine of work and solitude. However, fate had a different plan in store for me one fateful day.
It started on a stormy afternoon when I, driven by wanderlust, decided to embark on a journey to the peak of Mount Fako. The mountain, known for its treacherous trails and unpredictable weather, was not for the faint of heart. Undeterred, I set off, determined to conquer the challenge ahead.
As I ascended, the weather worsened, and the trails became more perilous. Thunder rumbled overhead and rain poured down, obscuring my vision. Anxiety gnawed at my heart, but I pressed on with unwavering determination. The path seemed never-ending, twisting and turning as if conspiring against me.
Hours turned into what felt like an eternity until, finally, I reached the summit. And what awaited me was beyond my wildest imagination. The storm had cleared, revealing a stunning view that took my breath away. A golden sunset painted the horizon, casting a warm glow over the surrounding landscape. Mountains stretched as far as the eye could see, their peaks piercing the cotton candy clouds.
Overwhelmed by the beauty before me, I momentarily forgot about my treacherous journey. For a few minutes I stood in awe, feeling the serenity and peace that only nature could provide. In that moment, the fears and worries that had plagued me dissipated, replaced by a profound sense of gratitude and humility.
Lost in my reverie, I failed to notice a stranger approaching. The stranger, with kind eyes and a warm smile, walked over and broke the silence. “Incredible, isn’t it?” he said softly. I nodded, unable to find words to express the magnificence I had witnessed.
The stranger introduced himself as Caleb, a seasoned mountaineer who had spent most of his life exploring the mountains. Intrigued, I listened intently as Caleb shared stories of his incredible adventures and the lessons he had learned along the way. It was as if I had found a guiding light in the midst of my darkness.
As darkness enveloped the mountains, I reluctantly bid farewell to Caleb, promising to meet him again in the future. The journey down the mountain seemed like a breeze compared to the challenging ascent. The stars twinkled above, casting a serene light on the now peaceful trail.
As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, I found myself craving another glimpse of the mountains, the view that had transformed me. I returned to Mount Fako, hoping to relive the magic of my first encounter with Caleb. And behold there, on the summit, stood Caleb, awaiting my return, like an old friend.
Together, we ventured into the heart of the mountains, exploring hidden trails and secret valleys. Caleb became my mentor, teaching me the art of resilience, the importance of embracing the unknown, and the power of kindness. We forged a bond that transcended the boundaries of age and time with our shared love for the mountains serving as the foundation.
In the years that followed, I became a respected mountaineer myself, leading expeditions and sharing my passion with others. But no matter how far I traveled or how high I climbed, I would always remember the terrifying journey that led me to that stunning view, and the stranger who showed me the true meaning of kindness.
