Ararat proved that it is far more than just a symbol.

Ararat has always been more than just a mountain to me; it was an “unreachable path to glory.” I never imagined that one day I would actually stand upon its summit. It wasn’t even a dream it was simply something beyond the realm of possibility.

On my very first day of work, I came across Nare Manukyan’s  story about the ascent of Mount Ararat. Reading those stories, something clicked inside me I knew right away that I wanted to create a story of my own. That was the moment my preparation began for what would become one of the most significant climbs of my life.

From Symbol to something else

Ararat had always been a symbol  of patriotism to me something to be admired from a distance, yet kept at arm’s length. I expected that reaching the summit would only make the mountain seem more grand and imposing for me. But the reality shifted my perspective entirely. Ararat became something deeply personal; it transformed into a mountain with which I now share a profound, living connection.

Physically, the ascent was manageable thanks to my experience as a seasoned hiker. I knew exactly where we would camp and what lay ahead of us. However, psychologically, it was a far more profound trial. The journey was a constant flux of emotions ranging from intense excitement to a deep, inner silence. Especially at the summit, when you finally reach it, the euphoria you were expecting is replaced by a kind of quiet yet profound feeling.

Throughout the entire ascent, we were dancing, singing, and sharing every moment together. Now, whenever I hear the melodies of Armenian folk dances, I am instantly transported back to that climb.

The Unifying Power of Ararat

During the climb, Ararat revealed its unifying power to me. We met people of different nationalities – Kurds and tourists. We started sharing our cultures, songs, and dances. As we danced with those who started as strangers, sharing our heritage, they no longer felt like outsiders; it was as if we were old friends. On a mountain that had once been an unreachable symbol to me, I found a community and even became a part of their own cultural journey.

At the summit, Ararat gifted me with emotions that are truly difficult to put into words. It was a whirlwind of excitement, gratitude, fear, and joy. In that moment, I stood at the peak overwhelmed and exhausted, yet filled with a profound inner light.

Ararat proved that it is far more than just symbolism; it must be accepted exactly as it is. It taught me that only you can truly forge your own unique bond with the mountain.

Ararat truly changed my life, making me stronger, more at peace, and filling me with memories that will stay with me forever. Now, Ararat is like an old friend no longer a distant dream, but a place where I have truly been.

 

Sona Vardanyan

HIKING MEMOIRS