We all have our reasons for undertaking this massive feat. Whether it’s the challenge of summiting the highest mountain on the African continent or one of the seven summits that you want to accomplish, you should have a clear goal and reason that will motivate you on the mountain. When I was a child I remember watching a documentary on Kilimanjaro. I was amazed at how beautiful the trek was. I remember clearly when they showed the massive glaciers on the summit. I had had this memory for as long as I could remember. I guess I was destined to climb and conquer Kilimanjaro. I also wanted to undertake this challenge because I am African, and I figured I had to be at the highest point of the continent! Clearly I had a few good reasons to attempt Kilimanjaro. That all changed 2 weeks before I was due to leave for Tanzania. My best friend, John, committed suicide. It was sudden and devastating news. I had prepared a year in advance for the trip and this news struck suddenly. I was in shock, devastated and saddened. I wondered if I could even attempt Kilimanjaro in my current state at the time. I decided at that point, that I would conquer Kilimanjaro for John, and I did. He was my motivation the whole way, especially the summit attempt. When my legs were jelly and I could barely walk, I heard his voice spurring me on. With his help I finally reached the summit, and wept like a baby. I summited Kilimanjaro not only for John, but also for me, for my healing. As I stood on the ‘roof of Africa’ and wept as I held his picture, I finally grieved and felt better for the first time. Having something to motivate you on this challenge is very important. There will be moments that you feel you can’t go on. Having a goal for this challenge could mean the difference in summiting or not.