Growing up, “The Sound of Music” wasn’t just a movie; it was an experience. Like many, I was captivated by the melodies and the heartwarming story, watching it repeatedly and memorizing every lyric of my favorite songs. There was always a special anticipation for the film’s finale, a moment that resonated deeply even in childhood.
Years later, in December 2013, NBC’s “The Sound of Music Live!” offered a fresh encounter with this classic musical. While watching the live performance, something shifted. It was during Audra McDonald’s rendition of “Climb Every Mountain” that the song’s profound message truly struck me for the first time. McDonald, a celebrated Broadway icon, brought a new layer of depth to the iconic role and song. That evening, as the lyrics filled the room, I felt an unexpected emotional surge. It was as if I was hearing the words for the very first time, and they resonated with an intensity I hadn’t experienced before.
The poignant lyrics, a snippet of which goes:
“Climb every mountain
Search high and low
Follow every byway
Every path you knowClimb every mountain
Ford every stream
Follow every rainbow
‘Till you find your dream”
These words are more than just lyrics; they are a powerful life metaphor.
My interpretation of “Climb Every Mountain” is deeply rooted in the idea that life itself is a mountain to be climbed. Our journey is filled with both peaks and valleys, constant shifts between triumphs and setbacks. The climb is never consistently uphill; it’s a dynamic process mirroring the ever-changing nature of mountains themselves. This inherent change is not something to fear, but to embrace as part of the journey.
Each of us carries a dream within us, a personal summit we aspire to reach. However, the path to that dream isn’t always linear. Our dreams can evolve and transform – sometimes dramatically. A dream we hold today might shift in a year, a week, a day, or even within hours. This fluidity of dreams can be unsettling. The idea of changing course, of letting go of a long-held vision, can be daunting for many.
Audra McDonald performing Climb Every Mountain, embodying the song's inspirational message
Life, this metaphorical mountain, often presents multiple paths to reach our desired peak. The crucial element is choosing a path that resonates with our inner compass, the dream that truly calls to our heart. Once we commit to that path, the journey becomes about consistent forward motion, continuing the climb regardless of the challenges. The path may seem daunting, steep, or distant, but perseverance is key. We will reach our destination if we keep climbing.
This reflection is a reminder, to you and to myself: never stop climbing. Never abandon the pursuit of your dreams, no matter how many or how varied they may be. Reaching the summit is within your grasp. Equipped with the right mindset and perseverance, you can conquer any mountain. Imagine the incredible sense of accomplishment, the view from the top, as you look back at the journey that led you to your dream.
xoxo
