Full Circle - An Addendum

On June 19, 2007, Pat and Nancy held vigil at the Bright Angel Trailhead, to wait for, then cheer Mary and I to the summit and conclusion of our Rim to Rim Grand Canyon Hike. After completing their difficult climb, all who had finished before us remained to greet us and others, share in our joy, celebrate the triumph, to bare their souls with ours. Minutes before our final steps, tears had welled in our eyes, anticipating the victory that was near. Our gait quickened, hearts pounded, and hands touched as we approached the rim. The tears burst forth when our friends at journey's end, took us into their embrace and let their spirit join ours. The exact words of congratulations may be lost, but never to be forgotten are the feelings and warmth that flowed from one to another in this moment shared among hikers of a select fraternity.

Mary and I were very moved by the spirit that prevailed as we exited the Grandest of Canyons. Human goodness, faith in each other, and thankfulness defined our emotions. Little did we know then that someday soon we might get the opportunity to repay two of our comrades for the love they gave to us in making our summit a life event.

On September 8, 2008 we could make that payment! At 11:45 am, perched near the trailhead, we sat and waited for Nancy and Pat to emerge from the canyon. Through binoculars we searched a half mile below for two small hikers with tall backpacks and huge hearts. Eventually an orange and a pink spot on a long traverse became larger. Soon we made a positive ID and shouted "Pat! Nancy! Rim to Rim to Rim! Hurray!!" They could not see us, but they did hear our greeting. Resolve, adrenalin, and weary legs carried them up and out of the abyss. With each step their images became more defined. Two, two together - they were magnificent, trek tough, and amazingly fit - friends of the trail. As somewhat serious hikers who have "walked the walk", we truly appreciated the great magnitude of the RTRTR accomplishment of our "real hiker" friends Pat and Nancy. Yes, we felt a bit of what they were feeling. Though difficult to put into words, it is a celebration of summit and heart.

We cheered them to rim, wrapped them in our arms, and blurted congratulations. Together we shared the feelings and tears that only special moments can bring. Finally, sitting side by side, with 45 pound backpacks removed, thirsts quenched, their mission was accomplished. Our girls did not look especially tired! Instead; relieved, grateful, proud, and very happy. Then and now, we are in total awe of this special team of two.

In friendship and love,