Slow and Steady

It wins the race. In preparation for the CN Tower, I did more climbing in my building tonight, using the RJA method. I'd planned to climb the tower at a pace of six flights and rest, and based on my climb and rest period, I'd complete the tower in about an hour and fifteen minutes. From discussions with RJA, I decided to try a pace of four and rest tonight.

What a difference that made. I wasn't as tired at each landing, and I didn't have to spend as long recovering. I went from thirteen minutes per ascent to eleven. This translates to under an hour for the tower, and the time is sure to improve as I improve over the next nine days. It made such a difference that where I'd previously struggled to complete one, let alone two passes, I was able to do three tonight without real difficulty and felt confident that I could have done four.

The principle extends to more than just stair climbing though. I know from my online dating experiences that slow and steady path builds something stronger than that which is hastily constructed, and subject to settling. Like climbing stairs, you don't have to do it all at once. Sometimes you need to take a breather and get your wind back before you can carry on. You will reach your goal though.

It's funny how life works sometimes. A year ago, I didn't think I'd be where I am now. A year ago, I was trying to deal with the loss of something that wasn't there. I was utterly rejected and trying to pick through mixed messages. It wasn't until I realized some great friends helped me realize that the words "I'm not ready for a relationship" meant, "I don't want a relationship with you" that I was finally able to heal, let go and grow.

Now, I find myself at the start of a new and exciting journey with someone special. Part of me is nervous; I don't want to jinx it by talking about it, but by the same token, I want to share my happiness with my friends and family. In fact, I'm sure I'm insufferable at this point, but I know they're happy for me. They've helped me along the journey to this point and I can't thank them enough.

What I appreciate and understand now; what I didn't really get before is that I don't have to plan the entire future now. The future will surely come. While it's cool to be able to make plans for a month from now, I'm enjoying just being and being with someone. For that, I don't have to plan beyond the next time I get to see her. Slow and steady will get us where we're going; so far, so good.