A couple days ago, Betsy (Northstar Staff) and I took off on a trek that would lead us onto the busy and sometimes backwards roads of Japan and eventually to the top of one of the most spectacular peaks in the world, Mount Fuji. Mount Fuji stands 12,388 feet in elevation and is not only an active volcano but also Japan's most recognizable symbol. Fuji is known for its symmetrical cone and is "the" place to see while visiting Japan.
So with the day off, the sun shining and the sounds of Donavon and Bob Marley in the air, the two of us hopped in the little Pajero (a tiny jeep like thing that the Japanese refer to as a car) and the journey began. With the unknown before us, our minds danced in the realm of possibility and promise as our cares of work turned into reservations to play. The roadie did not take long; a little over three hours after leaving Northstar, we got our first glance at the monstrous peak known as Fuji while still many miles away. Excitement reigned supreme and carry us carefree to the base where we slept in a parking lot for the night. 

An alpine start of four a.m. was appropriated, as hopes dreamed were now within our grasps. Hitting the first trail head with only the glow of our head lamps to lead the way, our strategy was simple . . . just keep going up. And up we went. Up and up and up. Fuji proved to be one of the most demanding hikes I have ever been on. However with every step up in elevation, the view and perspective on the world below began to change. A change almost indescribable. A change that left the norm behind and rose above the earth and the clouds into a whole other world. A world where clouds swayed at your feet and the eye could only see beauty in the form of silhouetted peaks piercing the clouds that were now your carpet. A world where vision was not restricted by buildings or bends but rather only by the limit of your God given ability. Lakes seen from above took on a majestic ancient feel as the changing of the colors was defined clearly in the new oranges, reds and yellows that blanketed Fuji's base.

The top of Fuji was awe-inspiring while demanding respect. The elements intensified as Mother Nature seemed disturbed by our conquering of the constant uphill opponent. Winds whipped, rains rages and feeling numbed causing the celebration of discovery and success to be short lived and coldly appreciated. Looking back now, Mount Fuji is a memory I will take with me forever. The antics, the hardships and the friendships experienced from this adventure were worth every step up and every step down.