Taking the road less travelled can be daunting, but it often leads to the most rewarding experiences and breathtaking views.

On my recent journey to Jade Mountain in Yunnan Province, China, I was told that I would be the only one in the tour group to ascend to the summit—the rest of the group decided not to go. The tour guide shared stories of the dangers ahead, including the decreasing oxygen levels at the top, which could lead to altitude sickness. Was I scared? Absolutely! But then I remembered something one of my former teachers once told me: when faced with two choices in life, always take the road less travelled, as it often leads to a better destination.

With newfound determination, I gathered three bottles of oxygen and began my climb. After three hours of battling fear and summoning courage, I finally reached the top. The serenity I felt was almost otherworldly, akin to a near-death experience. It was a feeling that’s hard to come by in our everyday lives, and in the end, it was entirely worth it.

Breath is the most important thing in life, and as we enter 2025, I wish everyone a year filled with good health and peace.