In the mountains, there are only two grades: You can either do it, or you can’t.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Ability in Mountains
A
Role of Luck
R
Success is only a matter of luck. Ask any failure.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Inspiration from Mountains
I
The experienced mountaineer is not intimidated by a mountain—he is inspired by it.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Unforeseen Outcomes
U
The aim was to whip the mountain into submission. The result was somewhat different.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Significance over Triviality
S
It is always important to recognize the significant from the trivial.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Humility Before Nature
H
Mountains have a way of dealing with overconfidence.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Collecting Wisdom
C
Sometimes, simply by sitting, the soul collects wisdom.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Blaming Others
B
Teamwork is essential—it allows you to blame someone else.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Adaptability
A
Nature has a funny way of breaking what does not bend.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle
Initiating Action
I
The most difficult part of any endeavor is taking the first step.
W.E. Bowman – The Ascent of Rum Doodle