Don’t Walk Away From the Mountain

Summary

The author reflects on the personal journey of pursuing a dream, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.

Abstract

The author is nearing the end of a significant personal journey, which has seen moments of fame and obscurity, love and heartbreak, and financial gain and loss. Despite reaching points that seemed like the peak, the author realized they were merely plateaus, and sometimes, it even felt like rock bottom. Through creating both good and bad art, writing a book, starting a show, planning an event, and public speaking, the author has concluded that the key to success and fulfillment is to never give up on one's goals, encapsulated in the phrase "Don't walk away from the mountain."

Opinions

The journey towards one's aspirations is filled with ups and downs, but perseverance is crucial.
Success and recognition are not final; they are part of a continuous process.
Emotional experiences, both positive and negative, are integral to the creative process.
Achievements, such as writing a book or public speaking, are milestones in personal growth.
The pursuit of one's goals often involves facing and overcoming challenges that may initially seem insurmountable.

Don’t Walk Away From the Mountain

“And I knew that as long as I kept walking towards the mountain, I would be alright” — Neil Gaiman

It’s close the end of the fifth year of one my life’s great journeys. People have surpassed me. People have fallen behind me. Others have just started.

I lingered in obscurity. I achieved a moment of fame. I had a glimpse of love and one of heartbreak. I’ve bled the truth of my heart on blank pages of moleskine notebooks.

I’ve stood on what appeared to be the to the top of the mountain only to realize it was yet another plateau, a false horizon and in some moments what even felt like rock bottom.

I’ve made good art. I’ve made bad art. I’ve made it on good days. I’ve made it on bad days. I’ve made money. I’ve lost money.

I’ve written a book, started a show, planned an event and stood on stage in front of 100’s of people to tell my story. And the conclusion that I’ve drawn from all this is six simple words:

“Don’t walk away from the mountain”