Personal Recount - Growth Camp (Draft 5)

My impression of the word ‘camp’ was always an event that I will have to suffer through. However, the recent camp that I went, which is the Growth Camp, was the only camp that I looked forward to. Maybe it was because of the high elements that were appealing to me. I cannot say that I am an adventurous person. Sometimes, I am even afraid of adventurous and challenging activities. Ironically, I enjoy going on an adventure, trying out adventurous activities.

The high elements left me a deep impression. I was sweating like a pig under the scorching sun, waiting for instruction. For instance, I doubted myself. Will I be able to conquer the high elements? Or shall I just back out? The angel and devil within me were having a debate in my head. In the end, I chose to give it a try. The instructor gave the instructions and soon, the first person was ready to go for flying fox. Everyone were shouting and cheering so loudly as if we were in a concert theatre.

Soon, it was my turn. I wore the safety gear and I had to climb up a four-level high building. The process of getting up there was extremely scary. The stairs were hollow and I could see through what exactly was below me. I felt unsecure, as if I will fell to the ground like falling leaves in the autumn. I persevered and tried very hard, telling myself not to be afraid, finally I managed to get to the top. I heaved a sigh of relieved. However, this was actually nothing compared to the challenges ahead. The worst part was the moment when I stood up there, getting ready to go. I looked down to the ground, my hands and legs were shivering as if I am standing under the snow. Beads of cold perspiration rolled down my neck. The instructor ensured that the belay system was alright and she asked me to sit down. I went off at the count of three.

The moment I let myself off, the wind hugged my face, leaving a cooling sensation on my skin. As I slow down and came to a stop, I felt very relaxed. It was as if all my stress flew out of me. I whispered to myself, “Oh my god, I did it, I really did it!” I could not express how I felt at that point of time. I felt that I had completed an impossible mission with more than ten pairs of eyes staring at me with admiration.

Until today, I could not believe that I actually overcome the difficulties and rise to the occasion still. I had learnt to give everything a try before saying no. Without trying, you will never know what the results will be. This is something that I will not learn in class. I came to a slow but certain that I can face challenges and overcome it myself, by putting in my best efforts and giving it a try.