A few weeks ago, David and I headed to Cleveland, South Carolina to go hiking at Raven Cliff Falls. It’s been a hot minute since I’ve been out walking through the woods let alone on an actual hike. The hike starts off easy and after about two miles in, you reach a viewing area where you can see the falls in the distance. From that point, you can turn around or continue on the Dismal Naturaland hiking loop.
The loop is an 8.8 mile trek with an elevation gain of about 2,240 feet that leads you to the falls. With warning signs posted about how strenuous the loop is and to account for an additional 4-6 hours of hiking, we had pretty much already made up our minds and continued our way up the trail.
To say the least, it was challenging. Gorgeous and well worth it, but challenging.
In so many moments, it made me realize how difficult some things in life truly are and how honestly important it is to have the right people by your side.
It made me realize how life has a funny way of putting you in your place. Even when you think you’ve got it handled and can deal with just about anything, something can be thrown your way that makes you realize you aren’t in control. Something that quickly reminds us to just have faith.
It made me remember how messy and unpredictable everything truly can be. How many unexpected turns and slippery slopes there are. How we are tested in ways you’d never even think possible. But also how amazing and rewarding those moments can be.
Life is messy but the mess and pain are temporary and when all of that’s gone, it’s really just beautiful.
-MK
Marilyn Colwell 