When I signed up for the "Akyat Pinatubo" organized by Let's Go Sago, I was so excited that I forgot to read blog posts sharing stories about the whole experience. From what I read on Let's Go Sago's site, the trek "is mostly flat lands," so I didn't feel the need to prepare for it.
When we reached the tourism office in Capas, we were divided into groups of five for the 4x4 ride. Each jeep had its own tour guide, and even if we had so much fun during the ride, I wasn't really prepared for what I will go through for the next hours.
While walking, he asked me to assess myself and think deeply if I could manage the whole trek to the crater of Mt. Pinatubo. He further told me that it would be best if I quit now while we were still near the parking area of the 4x4 jeeps, because it might be difficult for me if I had to quit halfway. I told him that I signed up for this and it was a dream of mine to see a volcano's crater, so I will continue, no matter how long it would take me. He admired my focus, and assured me that he will be with me every step of the way.
He told me that the whole trek is more or less 10 kilometers. While many people can finish a 10km marathon in less than 2 hours, what made the trek more difficult were the elements: rains, cold wind... then scorching heat. Aside from that, we had to watch our every step as the rocks were a bit loose and one wrong step might cause one to slip and get injured.
Halfway through the trek, I had a very bad leg cramps (mainly because of the cold water stream). It was so bad that I couldn't make a step anymore, but the tour guide was with me - he even wrapped my leg with bandage and massaged my leg so I could go on.
I stopped every now and then and watching people pass us by made me feel bad (truly, I have abused myself for allowing me to be this big), but the tour guide has showered me with much encouragement.
Along the way, we talked about life, family, and other matters. I learned about his struggles as a Mt. Pinatubo tour guide, and we got to share inspirational stories about life.
Three and a half hours later, we finally reached the crater. As much as my sister applauded me for making it, the tour guide was happy that I didn't give up. This trek, taking aside the picturesque aspect of it, was more of self journey for me. Sure, I got to exchange stories with the tour guide, but I got to talk to myself more, listen to the woes of my heart and be reminded of just how much God loved me.
photo credit - Recycle Bin of a Middle Child
Aside from the tour guide, this trip also allowed me to travel with other bloggers, who I met for the first time. Some of them eventually became online pals, so all in all, this trip covered so much.
photo credit - Recycle Bin of a Middle Child
Aside from the tour guide, this trip also allowed me to travel with other bloggers, who I met for the first time. Some of them eventually became online pals, so all in all, this trip covered so much.
We only got to stay an hour at the crater, and because I knew how long it would take me to do the trek, I decided to leave the crater early, so it will give me time to pace myself. However, I still arrived at the 4x4 jeep parking area last.
The trek was a test of faith and endurance (at least for me). But one thing's for sure: I will never, ever forget that during one of life's tests, there was a person who was willing to stay with me and understand me every step of the way.
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This post is my entry for Pinoy Travel Bloggers' Blog Carnival for July 2011 with the theme "Unforgettable Human Encounters on the Road" hosted by Marky Ramone Go.
This post is my entry for Pinoy Travel Bloggers' Blog Carnival for July 2011 with the theme "Unforgettable Human Encounters on the Road" hosted by Marky Ramone Go. 
