Stairway to Heaven
We are pictured here at an alternative start to the climb in either late fall or early winter. As with many Flatiron routes, there are many lines to follow. The beauty of this route, is that it is easy to exit from. Typically, the higher you climb this route, the dryer it becomes.
I selected this image because of the singular focus that is especially relatable when leading a route. First off, without a belayer, I would not truly be here alone, as I would not recommend exploring these routes without ropes. A rope opens a world of opportunity for safety and exploration. After "on belay," though, and you answer, "climbing," you are on your own. Climbing Flatirons can be very run-out between placing protective devices, especially for the adventurous, and the reward for the exposure is the focus it brings. The clarity of mind is deeper for me than any meditation when I am feeling the exposure. Everything within a six foot sphere, completely disappears. So, how to express this state of mind in a painting?
Stairway to Heaven