This past month, along with 11 other men, I traveled to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Rising 19,341 feet above sea level, Kilimanjaro is both the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and the highest peak on the African continent.
We began training back in May to prepare our bodies for the mountain’s unpredictable and demanding conditions. Even so, the final summit push was the most physically challenging thing I’ve ever done. Starting at midnight in near sub-zero temperatures, we hiked steadily for eight hours before reaching the peak just after sunrise. Watching the first light break over the horizon as we climbed is an image I will never forget.
As tough as the climb was, it was equally rewarding. Being immersed in God’s creation, completely disconnected from everyday life, felt like a true gift. The journey pushed me to discover more about who I am and what I’m capable of, but I’ll admit, I’m also very thankful to be back home and sleeping in a real bed!
— Jason Geber
