Towers



http://www.theworldinlight.com/

I am claustrophobic; I have been working on this phobia for years.  Climbing to the top of this castle tower in the Alsace Lorraine Region was accomplished only after mentally coaxing me up the narrow, steep steps in the dark tower.  There were a couple of false starts; I had to turn and go back down.  My friend scaled the tapered corridor ahead of me, coaching me up through the dimness - "There's a narrow spot.  Here's a window, if you can get midway there is light. Pretty steep at this level but if you make it up two more flights, you will see daylight.  Ah, yes I am at the top now.  You can make it," he called down.  His words buoyed my nerve to continue the ascent.
The view was worth the climb; below me in all directions were vineyards.  Off in the distance, large hawks soared in the warm up drafts.  On the other side of the tower, I sighted another castle.  I wondered if the former inhabitants were friends back in the medieval days or were they arch enemies.  Perhaps they had no relationship, but that is more difficult to believe - instead, I contemplate them going back and forth, two fortresses built on top of the mountain.  I felt pride to be able to conjure this scene.  From this vantage point, my imagination can take flight. 



http://www.theworldinlight.com/



What I learned from this event is that when facing a task that is hard for me, having a person who cares enough to offer encouragment, make me feel safe, and is willing to be the way shower, a light guide of sorts ... can pull me mentally out of a self created fear.  I am still claustrophobic but I made this climb; I can make another.  More importantly, I realize the significance of having a meaningful friend and companion; a person who wants me to succeed.