My father used to tell us how he spent Coronation Day in 1953. He climbed Ben Nevis which was, coincidentally, when the first confirmed ascent of Mount Everest was achieved. One person’s achievement is another person’s walk in the park; one person’s victory is beyond another’s reach. Only one person could have been crowned Queen that day, a position out of reach for everyone else.
This summer when we were on holiday in Scotland the plan was for my daughter, Helen and I to have a go at Ben Nevis ourselves. I was doubtful about my physical fitness and finding a suitable day seemed a challenge too. Augst 22nd turned out to be suitable and off we went. As it happened, I found I was still up to the task ahead and we made our way steadily upwards until we got to the top.
I wish I could write here of the views that others have described and photographed. I would love to say I was inspired to describe to you the thoughts provoked in me that day about the glory of God in creation. The truth is that all that is for the imagination. With about a thousand feet to go the cloud dropped and the moment of achievement was so shrouded in white wetness that all I really have is a memory of not lingering for fear of getting cold.
What did we achieve on August 22nd, 2024? Nothing significant by the world’s standards. We will not stand out as remarkable people in history, nor have the honour of being the first to do something. Just as on Coronation Day in 1953, my father simply followed where others have led, so too this summer, did we.
One person’s big deal is, indeed, a walk in the park for another. One person’s destiny can never be the lot of someone else. But our achievements are not insignificant from where we are. We may have seen nothing of the view from top but I still proved to myself that I am marginally fitter than I thought I was.
A prayer
Lord, I cannot climb every mountain nor ford every stream. Sometimes the rainbow disappears but guide me anyway so that today I may do those things that you equip me for and want me to do. Give me the grace to accept that what I achieve is right for me. Help me understand that we are all part of your glory made manifest; our small steps are part of your big picture. There was only one who could achieve victory over death; you did it Lord Jesus, and in doing it for one, did it for all, including me. Thank you. Amen.