Reaching Higher Ground

Being a leader is to know your limits. Anje did just that. Once she was able to identify those limitations within herself she then still had the strength to verbalise them and to stand in her truth. That act was not only that of a leader but of a mature woman making an adult decision.

The Trango Tower (1178m) loomed in the distance, bathed in the early morning sunlight. Soon “The Chameleons” - our group, would be swarming around her base like busy bees eager to punch the sky in celebration on her summit crown. From base to summit was a 600m slog on 70° slope. An early morning start had everyone eager and in high spirits. Once we crossed the Kleinkliphuis River we were in the shadow of our peak. It was tough going with painful bush whacking through dense fynbos and regular water breaks.

The Chameleons were mentally prepared and constant motivation was the order of the day. About half way up we entered a narrow gully with a steep slope 200m long leading to the summit. This was tough going but the group persevered and arrived at the base of the final headwall of the summit. Only 100 metres to go.

It was here that Anje Matthee stopped. She could go no further. She had climbed her Everest.
No amount of group motivation or cajoling could move her upward. The summit crown seemed so close, close enough to touch. Some of her team mates were angry; they wanted to climb to the summit. When Brandon finally admitted that he would not feel happy sitting on the summit without all his team mates, a chorus of nodding heads joined in his sentiments. Chameleons together forever!

Tears trickled down Anje’s cheeks as the feeling of comradeship engulfed her. Her daring to admit her own weakness drew initial rejection but ended in total support. Almost in unison the group slowly descended. Each helped one another down with loving care.
“The journey that we travel together and the moments we share are more important than achieving the ultimate goal,” said Portia. The Chameleons lived that on Trango Tower.