"With the start of a new year comes time for reflections of the past and intention setting for the future. ​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ I’ve found that the outdoors attracts a certain type of individual; those that are introspective of their place on this Earth and their relationships with others. With climbing specifically, it attracts those that are willing to step out of their comfort zones, and push themselves beyond what they thought they were originally capable of. The act of climbing with others inherently encourages trust, communication, vulnerability, and teamwork. Our climbing partners have seen the best and the worst of us, and yet, they are here for us. They stay with us. They encourage us no matter the odds because deep down, all of us to some degree understand climbing to be a mirror for life’s circumstances. Our goals of happiness and life satisfaction are universal - like the feeling we get when we finally send our project, or see the beautiful view atop a summit. Although we will inevitably encounter hardship along the way - from pulley injuries or self-doubt - we will eventually overcome through self-improvement, sheer will, and our support systems - belay partners, bouldering buddies, and even that significant other who is personally afraid of heights but cheers on our incessant need for it.​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ Lately, I have thought much about the concept of sonder; the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as my own. In 2023, I hope to focus on my relationships to people. Because it is ultimately those I've met along the way that helped me get to where I am today. It is what the SCARPA Athlete Mentorship Initiative is about; not just climbing, but the people-and the community when we come together." - @xavierbravo0217​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ PC: @cody.kaemmerlen