Rock Warrior’s Way by Arno Ilgner
I started Rock Warrior’s Way a couple of years ago but my head wasn’t in the right place for it and I didn’t finish it. The book tries to teach you to climb confidently by approaching climbing with an attitude of love, not fear. It’s supposedly based on some warrior tradition (Don someone or other) but it reads a lot like Buddhism. It’s about being in the moment, watching your thoughts, and staying centered on reality rather than wishful thinking.
Anyway, I was so wrapped up in fear when I first read it that I couldn’t even hear the message. Plus, I didn’t know anything about Buddhism then. This time around I found the book very wise and helpful and I’m really glad I went back and tried again. I’ve been using the lessons I learned, most especially about engaging the climb (which is often the crux for me – just stepping up) and not trying to make the climb easier but to make myself more capable (rise to the level of the climb, don’t wish it down to your level).