Nothing Is Impossible

By Liz Dyke

There have been so many special moments for me whilst working as a tutor at Bendrigg over the last 9 years, it’s hard to pick out just one or two. The way that both individuals and groups come together and challenge themselves is incredible and so rewarding to be a part of.

I remember one young man sat with me at the top of our free hang abseil who was petrified of going over the edge into “thin air” – a totally rational fear when we’re designed to walk on the ground. You could see his inner battle going on as, on the one hand, his mates were all doing it so he should be able to do it too, but logic and reasoning was telling him that it just wasn’t natural. We talked together about his reservations and what was stopping him – it takes a lot of trust, in both the person holding the safety rope (who he’d only known a few days), and also in the equipment… Was it strong enough? What would happen if he let go? Could he get tangled in the rope? Was it safe? – All valid questions. He was determined though and he inched ever closer to the precipice, slowly but surely finding the courage to put his trust in the rope and in me to keep him safe. Then, letting the harness take his weight whilst his feet were still on solid ground, you could see the apprehension and fear begin to give way to determination and the realisation that “he could do this”. We all held our breaths as he perched poised and ready for that final leap into the unknown, the tension building, his class mates cheering him on, his teachers willing him to succeed.

The joy and emotion that swept through everyone as he stepped off the edge and hung suspended in mid air was incredible and he continued to amaze himself and everyone by taking complete control of his rope and lowering himself, slowly and smoothly back down to terra firma. A massive achievement for him!

It took a huge amount of determination and resilience on his part to push through his fears and overcome them, putting his trust in others and in his own ability to succeed at a challenge unlike any he had previously faced but he did it…. and actually came back for a second go too!

This is just one example of the wonderful moments I have had the pleasure of being part of at Bendrigg. Our guests have reduced me to tears many times as I continue to see them achieve what, in their minds (or those of their carers, teachers and parents) was, seemingly, “impossible!!”

Nothing is impossible, no problem insurmountable, sometimes we just need a little help and guidance – mixed with determination, resilience and a positive “can do” attitude.

Liz xx

Our people are one of our charities 7 core values and Liz is one of the most kind, caring and thoughtful people we are lucky enough to have on our team.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, our staff team remain of paramount importance to us, simply put, Bendrigg isn’t Bendrigg without our amazing team.

Please help us so that we are able to continue offering adventure activities for all, once it is safe to do so, by supporting our Resilience Campaign.

Thank you from all the Bendrigg Family x