The first half of May 2025 was relatively cold. Today (I wrote this text on the 13th of May, 2025), I was wondering how it would be to carry a weight on my back and shoulders of 35 kg (77 lbs.) in scorching heat.
The anticipation of this challenge was both daunting and exhilarating. Undoubtedly, a heatwave sooner or later will hit Poland. I do not know if it happens in the second half of May or June. What I know is that it is a matter of time before I will be walking with a tremendously heavy rucksack and doing street photography while the Sun’s burning rays will be attacking my skin. The mental preparation for this challenge is as important as the physical readiness. It’s a reminder that our minds play a significant role in overcoming physical challenges. Can’t I wait for it? No.
Contrary to the time before Fall and Winter, when I cannot wait to dive into the cold by walking in summer clothes in freezing temperatures, I do not miss heatwaves.
I know that I will be sweating a lot while walking with a heavy burden in scorching heat. I try to find that walking in a heatwave is the same challenge as walking in frigid temperatures. Indeed, the older I am, the more I feel that walking in hot temperatures is more challenging than walking in summer clothes in, let’s say, 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). When I think of walking in the burning Sun with a heavy backpack, I am unsure whether I truly want to do it. Of course, I will do it, but I know it would be a tremendous effort for my mind, athletic body, and soul.
Still, I know I want to break my own barriers in various topics, including rucking.
Rucking, for me, is not just a physical activity but a journey of personal development. It’s about pushing my limits, overcoming challenges, and becoming a more robust human. After all, in rucking I trust. Keep your fingers crossed for my fighting with myself for myself. I have no doubt that crossing the borders in one’s mind is the only way to become a more robust human.
