My wish for a family vacation this year was one summed up in one word ‘waterfalls’. When we finally started nearing our destination in the cloud forest after a long drive, the mist is freshly descending on us as if straight from heaven, cloaking everything in a veil of mystery. The trail to the waterfalls was an uphill climb, muddy and sometimes slippery. Even though I hadn’t planned to get into the water, the plan was soon out of the window as we drew closer.I am usually scared (ok, terrified is more like it) when faced with such a force of nature. Something in me can sense the sheer power and my own insignificance in comparison. Then the call takes over, if it is genuine. Not all of them are. I step forward carefully, listening for guidance from the mighty waterfall, enjoying our communion.The water is fresh, clear, cool. Now, I’m glad that I braved my fears, that I didn’t just stay watching from the edge and turn back with my hair neat and clothes dry. The experience is completely worth the cold, sodden gear on the trek back. After the event, it’s obvious that I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. What was I actually even afraid of anyway? Our fears are quite irrational, and yet I could so easily have missed out.
La promesa waterfall in Costa Rica