It is a valid question to ask yourself. What does skiing mean to you? 

We live in a time where everyone is a “hero.” Everything is being filmed, photographed, talked about and scrutinized. The limits of skiing are being pushed, forcing athletes to face more risk to stay on top. There are less and less first descents, trips that haven’t already been taken, or lines that “that other guy” hasn’t skied first. So why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to be rock stars? 

To me skiing is personal. It is the time you spend quieting your mind while hiking 3000ft. It’s skiing that one line on creamy pow, knowing your own lungs and legs got you to the top. It’s sharing experiences with friends and seeing them be so stoked on that last turn. 

I had a conversation with Roger Strong, a phenomenal athlete and person, and I will never forget his attitude about the outdoors. The whole experience is more than just the first ascent or skied line. It is about the journey leading up to that ascent or descent. It is about the people you surround yourself with and how they influence you. 

In my short time skiing I have come to realize what is most important to me. I love to ski and strive to ski harder, hike farther, and push myself mentally; but at the end of the day for me, skiing is about having fun and by surrounding myself with people who will make me a better person.

-k

An interesting interview from Coreshot:

http://coreshot.tumblr.com/post/16792150053/interview-dr-robb-gaffney-m-d