Longer Than I Thought – Throwback Thursday

“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” – Milton Berle

A few years ago, the family and I took a hike at Catawba Falls in the North Carolina Mountains. When I looked it up online, it said that it was only a mile and a half to see the falls. I thought to myself, 1 1/2 miles isn’t that bad because I walk at least five miles at work every day. I didn’t realize that there is a difference between a mile and a half in a flat classroom versus a mile and a half on a steep mountain going uphill the entire time. It took a little more effort to get to the top than I thought it would. At one point my wife and daughter turned around before seeing the falls. I told them they were close, and my wife’s response was, “I know you will take pictures of it, so I’m good.” My son and I eventually made it to the top. The falls were amazing, and worth the longer than expected hike.

I learned a few lessons on that day. One, I know a mile walk in the mountains is different than a mile walk at work. Two, make sure everyone is fully aware of the distance, and they understand what they will need to make it to the end. Three, know your audience. Some members of my household don’t mind long walks, and others do.