It is too easy to go through stretches of life flying beneath the radar. We live in a society that doesn’t encourage or foster relationships. Many of us know our neighbors names, but little else about the people we share a community with. We know what our co-workers do, but we don’t really know who they are.

Reclaiming my health and preparing to climb Monadnock has taught me a lot about the importance of community. In the past, my weight loss efforts would be secretive, perhaps only my wife would be in on it. This time I announced my intentions to my friends, family, co-workers and colleagues, and I asked them to play a role in helping to achieve my goal. Everyone, from the Elders at work to people I don’t even know who e-mailed me after reading this blog, has had a hand in this effort. Without community, I would have failed, again. I urge you, whatever your goals, challenges, aspirations, and struggles may be, lean on others. There are many who will share your burden, who want to help others along life’s journey. Community will surprise you.