Stronger and braver than I thought I could ever be, I navigated the loose, slippery rocks along a small river in Panama that led to an open area and a waterfall. My legs trembled, my footing uncertain. I held onto a heavy, thick stick and the hand of my very kind Embera guide. I pulled myself up a rope to a higher elevation, sometimes climbing on all fours. If I had known I was going to do this, I probably would have said, “No way!” But here I was, making my way through the riverbed, water roaring and cascading along the riverbank. One false move and I would have had to be rescued from the sweeping current. All I kept thinking was that I had to come back the same way. I had no choice; I had to keep moving forward until we reached the waterfall. The waterfall was breathtaking, and the peace and tranquility of that spot made it all worthwhile. I was capable.
My life has been a series of moments that demanded bravery and strength. I know I am not alone in this observation or in these experiences. According to Buddha, Samsara, by its very nature, is suffering. I truly believe that. After 69, soon to be 70, years of this life, I have not met a single soul whose life has been perfect. We are born crying. Each moment is a challenge, a test of our bravery. Each step is on a slippery rock; one false step can mean being swept away.
There come those moments when you reach the beautiful waterfall, the wonder and miracle of survival and of life itself. Those moments when you can reflect and say.
“I’m okay. I can do this. I can be brave.”
GrowingOlderHopeWiser 
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