I’m here. Ancient stones are only steps away from my touch. I see a high point in the glorious distance and make it my goal to at least make it there. I take my first step and just admire the wall itself. This wall is man-made, a group of people spent their time putting lopsided stones together to protect their country from invasion.
I begin my journey and suddenly see that I never truly realized that not only is it a long walk, but the steps and path to the spot are incredibly steep. I take my first stop to catch my short breath where there are little windows that have a thick ledge to sit on and stare out into the distance of snowcapped mountains. As I breathe the crisp air, I remember my best friend, Annabel, who wrote me letters to read for almost every moment of my China trip, one titled “read when you see something so amazing it takes your breath away.” I open it and it reads,
Isn’t it great? Whatever you’re looking at. Isn’t it amazing that you get to experience this? How lucky are you to be here right now looking at whatever it is that made you open this letter. Take a moment, right now, to appreciate this opportunity. This opportunity you may never get back, might I add. Take a moment to realize how lucky you are for this. Be grateful for it, this may be your first and last time feeling this.
On the verge of tears, I continue my climb. The higher I get, the more obligated I feel to turn around and see my progress. When I do, I smile a little bit bigger, getting more of the scenery in my view.
After a few more small stops, I reach my goal point. This isn’t even close to the highest point of the entire wall, but my effort, as well as the others of all ages around me, to get up here made me feel accomplished. I can’t believe I’m actually here. The feeling is so surreal. I’ve spent my whole life looking at pictures of exotic places and the wonders of the world and wishing one day I could actually pursue my goal to go there, and here I am, standing on the Great Wall of China. I get chills with the thought of it. The view is absolutely breath taking and I never want to leave this spot, or this moment of pure bliss.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
