Question

What according to the writer, did his experience as an Everester teach him?

Answer 1

Hint: Major H.P.S. Ahluwalia, the narrator of The Summit Within, recalls his experiences and sentiments while climbing Mount Everest and standing at its summit. In 1965, he was a member of the first successful Indian expedition to Mount Everest. Although he was fatigued when he reached the summit of Everest, he expressed his joy and humility at having accomplished such a feat.

Complete answer:
Major Ahluwalia believed that, in addition to ascending the world's tallest peak, it was equally necessary to reach the summit of one's mind. To climb a mountain, he believes that a person must have three qualities: endurance, perseverance, and willpower. These characteristics aid a person in overcoming obstacles in life. It is critical for a person to have these qualities so that he can enjoy his life and resolutely overcome any barriers that may arise.

Major Ahluwalia further stated that reaching the summit taught him the value of teamwork. Two or more people form bonds while ascending the mountain since they share the same rope and other materials. While one climber ascends the mountain, another clings to the rope and hacks through the hard ice to clear the way ahead. The main purpose of Major Ahluwalia's mission was to convey the message that scaling the mountain by oneself is a difficult endeavour. Climbers require emotional support from their partners in addition to physical assistance.

Thus, according to the author, his experience as an Everest climber has taught him how to tackle challenges with tenacity. It also taught him to look within himself for an internal pinnacle that is higher than Everest.

Note: The Summit Within tells us that we should endeavour to overcome whatever challenge we face in life by combining three qualities: endurance, tenacity, and willpower. Being constant in our inner self-improvement can help us reach greater heights in life.