By Majka Burhardt
Published by Pegasus Books
Published by Pegasus Books
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The diary gives a raw look at an athlete and new mother and the difficulties it brings trying to stay connected to both of these banks. It delves deep into the stretching-thin that occurs when juggling a passion (climbing), a career (her non-profit and climbing), a marriage, and twins. It takes the reader through the ping-pong of the joy and love of being a parent one moment, and barely holding on the next. Majka also explores her own parent's past - if, whether, how their divorce and her mother's violent rape, impacts her own reactions to marriage and children.
Can she do it? Does the bridge collapse? You’ll have to read it.
Can she do it? Does the bridge collapse? You’ll have to read it.
Books are made to stimulate and educate the mind. Personal journals are some of the most heartfelt and raw reading you can find. It’s like watching a documentary but with little editing and no fluffy music in the background. I felt a little uncomfortable that Majka let me into this challenging and intimate time of her and her family’s-life. On reflection, I’m glad she did.
Women have sacrificed careers and self, rearing families since time began. In today’s Western population, with women now in positions of authority and prestige, it's a hard act to follow when you are juggling so many balls. The read also gave this guy much to think about when reporting on female climbers. The biggest learning, as a man, is to stop and listen to the woman. To understand that she is badass not because of the climbing alone, but because she still gets out and kicks ass as a mother, a wife, a career woman, a climber, and as a person. This edition of Common Climber is focusing on the theme of "strength," and including this book in this issue fits. More shows us strength in ways that deserve to be recognized (beyond sending difficult and dangerous climbs): raw honestly; holding things together; breaking down; getting help; fighting for your passion; and, yes, the mental game of climbing cutting-edge routes when you now have the responsibility of children. This is a staple read for climbing-women entering into motherhood, if only to provide knowledge that you are not alone. For partners and husbands of women climbers, as well as mothers, this is a way to not get surprised by the change of pace and the new horizons presented to you and your family. Majka, thanks for your honestly and telling of your entry into motherhood and what you have found on this intersection of your climbing life. You’ve summited great peaks and I’m sure you will bring great adventures - and, of course, lots of love - to your kids. Climb on, Mom! |
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