When the Spirit is Willing and the Flesh is Weak

[Jeff Seffinga]

The old saying about horses (and bicycles) urges that when you fall, you get back up on them immediately. The same should apply to waterfall walks. After the aborted one Jan. 24, I admit I was hesitant about the next one on Jan. 31. However, the spirit was again willing to try to overcome the weaknesses of the flesh.

This walk was laid out in such a way that it worked from its highest spot to its lowest; I didn't realize until trudging uphill via the paved road how difficult this could have been. Most of it was on well-travelled trails with only the occasional 'soft' and/or slippery spot. Encouragement to assist the spirit and helping hands (or shoulder!) to assist the flesh surrounded me at all times. Any minor miseries became inconsequential.

And the waterfalls! Mine is a memory of water falling in three different modes. There was the Sisters of Mary falls (and Little Canterbury) hiding and teasing with the smallest of glimpses of still-running water under a cover of ice and snow. And then there was Canterbury falls, its complete face hidden under a solid mask of ice while underneath hidden waters still burbled audibly on the stone heart. And the majesty of Sherman falls. Towering, undaunted by winter's limitations and the magnificent encroachments of ice, it remained one of the most impressive of our waterfalls, whatever the season.

The reception awaiting at the Old Mill restaurant was a comfort of drinks, food, conversation, laughter, and fellowship. The warmth of the hearts overcame the chill of cheeks and noses, the ache of backs and hamstrings.

Then for myself, on the way back to the car, a quick appreciative stop to watch the controlled flow of the Upper Old Mill falls: ice and falling water in an almost equal balance. Waiting at home? Hot water, soft cushions, good music.

[Elaine Harvey]

Beautifully written, Jeff.

[Jeff Seffinga]

Thanks, Elaine. I know I write better than I hike but enjoy them both!

[Kurtis Elsliger]

Great stuff Jeff couldn't have said it any better myself!

[Karen Rankin]

Wow Jeff...reading your words made me feel like I was there with the group.

[Patricia Laird]

This is fabulous and inspiring. I would have loved to have gone on that walk. Cantebury Hills is one of my most favourite areas. Truth is, I am having great trouble with my knees, and having one replaced on February 25th. With writings like this it makes me feel like I am there. And the pictures, wow! Thanks so much for sharing.

[Laura]

Jeff, amazing job!!! You have captured the true world of waterfalling with the group.

[Shirley Binkle]

This post is just lovely. This was my first walk and I so much enjoyed it. I was hoping to see water and that I did... Sherman falls is amazing. You are an inspiring writer, nicely written. I look forward to future waterfall walks with this group...

[Dale]

I know the feeling very well. The Chedoke walk was our first. It's been a long time since my wife and I walked that far. By the end we were pretty much done in, but I'd do it all over again. This morning we're both aching and sore all over. That will go away and we'll be ready for the next walk.