That is why we climb. We climb to reach safety. We climb to reach hope.
This quote beautifully captures the essence and symbolism of the act of climbing, extending beyond a physical journey to a metaphorical pursuit of safety and hope. At its core, climbing is often perceived as a challenge against gravity, obstacles, and inner fears. However, Carissa Kohne highlights that climbing is not just about conquering peaks or heights, but about the human drive to find security and a better future.
The phrase "we climb to reach safety" suggests an innate desire to rise above dangers or difficulties that may be present at lower levels—to escape adversity and move toward an environment where one can feel secure. This could metaphorically refer to many situations in life, where we strive to move past hardship and instability to find peace and security.
Similarly, "we climb to reach hope" implies that hope is something above and beyond our current state, something that motivates us to keep pushing forward despite setbacks. It conveys a powerful message that hope is not static but a destination that requires effort, courage, and persistence to attain.
In the context of life's challenges, this quote can inspire individuals to see their struggles and efforts not just as obstacles but as steps on a journey toward a safer, more hopeful future. It acknowledges climbing — or striving — as a fundamental part of the human experience, giving purpose to perseverance and resilience. The simplicity of the language reinforces the clarity of this motivation and encourages reflection on our personal reasons for "climbing" in our own lives.