I believe in balance. Balance plays a huge part in my life. The sport I love demands it, the people I love deserve it, and the life that I love needs it. As a rock climber, balance is one of the key tools that I use in order to successfully climb a route. Being highly aware of where your body is in relation to the rock is something every great climber has, and is something I strive for every time I tie in. Each foot placement, hand position, and general weight distribution affects how much energy you use to climb, therefore affecting how well you climb. You will hardly ever see a great climber thrutching around on the rock, expending energy faster than a rabid hyena. When you watch the greats, you will see grace, fluidity, and above all, fantastic balance. They are always aware of their bodies, and that allows them to be successful. Another activity that requires balance is slacklining. Slacklining not only requires good physical balance, but mental balance as well. If you are thinking about anything besides staying on the line, chances are you won’t. Physical and mental balance are important because they allow me to do things that I find challenging, exciting, and refreshing. Living a balanced life is also very important to me. My family is one of my top priorities, and I generally try my hardest to pull my weight back at home. However, there are times that I need to get away from that life and take some time for myself. Balancing a strong family life, an active social life, and an honest personal life can be extremely difficult, and it is something I try to work on every day. Being able to maintain a balance in my personal life has proved to be a challenge, and it remains a constant interior struggle within me. I have many interests, ranging from climbing to music, to baseball, and even to theater. I was involved in all of these activities and more in high school almost around the clock. Unfortunately, I have come to the painful realization that this must come to an end if I am going to move forward in my life. I can see in my future a constant struggle to stay balanced, and to not get wrapped up in any one thing or stuck in a rut. I fear this, and I will do my best to avoid it. Staying balanced will keep me sane, wholesome, and it will keep me from taking monster whippers when I’m on the sharp end. This is why I believe in the importance of balance.
