6/05/06

Afterthoughts

By Roger Coffey

Starbucks stock just went up. It had to. Since returning home, I've consumed enough of their beans to get - even me to the top of Mt Everest! 
After working 3 to 4 jobs, 10-14 hours per day, 6 and 7 days a week - for months to save and save, I left home a little uneasy about what I was getting into. I wasn't sure I had what it takes to provide the support the team needed. I definitely didn't know what I was doing. What is a Base Camp Manager anyway? What would the team be like? How would they treat me? How would they respond to crisis situations? Are Everest climbers really a bunch of arrogant, egotistical, self centered, maniacs? When the going got tough, would we be putting up dukes? How would I perform under pressure? Would I fall apart? Could the team count on me to maintain a good attitude and get the job done? 

That was then. 

Now I know. Now I know what 99% of the climbers are really made of. Now I know what life is really like in Base Camp for those with a good team.  Never have I been treated so courteously, kindly, and gratefully as at Base Camp. Never have I seen a group work together so fluidly under such duress. Never have I seen problem solving and crisis resolution performed so professionally. Never have I been so proud as to say, "I was a part of that". I was a part of something extraordinary. People who are extraordinary. Team No Limits and their affiliated climbers changed my life, my outlook, my self esteem. It was no less than a privilege to spend time with these incredible people.

 
The expedition experience wasn't easy. It wasn't a walk in the park. It was trying for everyone. I suppose little in life is so rewarding as that which is earned. This was earned. It was earned by everyone involved, climbers, Sherpas, porters, cooks . . . you name it. Just as important is the support we received from home. The thoughts and prayers of family and friends were an enormous uplift for our team. The tireless work of Amy McGhee, with a great talent and a giving heart, is priceless. I thank God for her. 

I am grateful to Doug, Matt, Larry, Julie, Will, Jeff, MJ, Dirk, Klaus, Apa and the rest of the crew for supporting and encouraging me personally. 

Congratulations Doug. You deserve it. You really do. 

God Bless our team and our Sherpas