Missing Out on the Suleja Dam Visit: A Bittersweet Tale of Timing and Gratitude.
Missing Out on the Suleja Dam Visit: A Bittersweet Tale of Timing and Gratitude.
The rainy season breathes life into landscapes, transforming them into lush, vibrant scenes that make a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. One such place is the Suleja Dam, a favorite spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts during this time of year. The dam, with its cascading waters and surrounding greenery, offers a picturesque escape that is both serene and exhilarating. This year, I had eagerly anticipated a return visit to the Suleja Dam, but life had other plans.
Last year, around the same time, I had the opportunity to visit the dam. It was during the peak of the rainy season, and the scenery was nothing short of breathtaking. The air was fresh, the vegetation lush, and the water levels at their peak, creating a powerful and mesmerizing flow. However, my experience was bittersweet. I was recovering from an ankle fracture and, though I was present, I couldn't fully immerse myself in the adventure. The terrain, though beautiful, was challenging, and my movements were limited by my injury. I watched as others hiked, explored, and reveled in the natural beauty, while I took cautious steps, constantly aware of my limitations. The dam, though magnificent, remained somewhat elusive to me that day.
This year, I was determined to make the most of it. My ankle had long healed, and I was ready to experience the Suleja Dam in all its glory, unencumbered by physical restrictions. The plan was set, and the excitement built up as the date of the visit approached. But then, a twist of fate intervened. The visit to the dam coincided with a planned trip to Kaduna a trip that I couldn't afford to postpone or cancel. It was a difficult decision, but ultimately, the trip to Kaduna took precedence.
As the day of the dam visit arrived, I found myself in Kaduna, a place with its own charms, but my thoughts often wandered to Suleja. I imagined the sounds of rushing water, the laughter of fellow hikers, and the thrill of navigating the trails. I felt a pang of disappointment, knowing that I was missing out on an experience I had longed for. But life, as it often does, has a way of balancing things out.
Though I couldn't be at the Suleja Dam in person, I was there in spirit, thanks to the incredible members of the Hikenationgroup. Throughout the day, they sent a steady stream of images and videos from the dam, capturing every moment of the visit. The images brought the beauty of the place to life, and the videos, with their accompanying sounds of nature and joy, made me feel as if I was right there with them. I remain thankful for the camaraderie and thoughtfulness of the group, who ensured that I didn’t completely miss out on the experience. Their updates were a constant reminder of the bond we share as a hiking community, where even when one of us can't make it, we're still connected through our shared love for adventure.
For those who haven’t yet experienced the magic of the Suleja Dam during the rainy season, I encourage you to follow @Hikenationgroup on Instagram. The page is filled with stunning images from our various hikes, including the recent visit to the dam. And if you’re looking to join a group that values both the journey and the camaraderie that comes with it, consider being a part of our next adventure. Whether it’s Suleja Dam or another breathtaking destination, there’s always a place for you in our hiking family.
While I missed out on the visit this time, I know that there will be other opportunities. The Suleja Dam will continue to flow, and the trails will still be there, waiting for me. And when the time is right, I’ll be back, ready to fully embrace the experience, with gratitude for the journey and the people who make it memorable.
