It was a moment of desperation, of fear, of courage and of hope.
Aron Lee Ralston - a name or face we may have not known 8 years ago, but remembered today as a hero to many. I was not aware of this tragedy which struck him in 2003 but the sudden interest grew immensely after watching the trailer of
127 Hours.
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| A must-watch: 127 Hours |
Affecting me even till now, the movie relates so precisely about Aron, a professional mountain climber and canyoneer. Being that avid adrenaline seeker that he is, he set out one springday to Bluejohn Canyon in Utah. Little did he know but he became trapped by a boulder during his adventure and was stuck there for 5 days. He was short on food and water supply and the biggest mistake he made was to not inform anyone on his whereabouts. Stuck in that surreal environment, Aron was trapped deep inside and was more than 30miles away from the nearest paved road. Even his screams and cries cannot be heard in the silent night.
The next few days were a test for him - one that he didn't bargain for. He was in the depths of despair - he was already prepared to die there, having carved his name unto the canyon walls, all alone and with no hope. His near death experience became a rebirth for Aron and an inspiration and quick flashback to so many. He braved himself and stood up with the courage to live to see tomorrow. He succumbed to his last resort - to cut off his own right arm. Aron amputated his arm with only a dull pocketknife to free himself. From cutting through his skin to hacking through the muscle or breaking his bones and tendon, Aron succeeded in that impossible task. He described that act as " it felt like shoving your entire arm in molten lava".
An astonishing story - too emotional for me, and what else more for Aron. I see him as a man who strive to live to see tomorrow and when left in an isolated life-threatening situation, we will be bound to then resort into doing something impossible. To do something we could never possibly imagine. From panic to despair to hope, Aron lived to tell his incredible tale. His story somewhat changed my outlook in life - to never underestimate myself or others and to stay strong, even in that darkest moment. I have an undying respect for Aron and look up to him for his bravery, courage and optimism to keep pressing on.
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| Aron Lee Ralston - A true inspiration |
127 Hours is not just a film - it's an experience. While it pains me to see that the film isn't exactly up to my expectation - it is still a remarkable movie - centered around a legendary performance. It is an authentic emotional experience and just simply, unforgettable. I urge you to watch this film - the uncensored version of course. Even more so, I urge you to watch Aron relating his daunting experience (videos can be found on youtube) to truly appreciate and celebrate the true hero that he really is. Aron Lee Ralston FTW! :)
"Don't just seize the day, but truly appreciate it."
- Aron Lee Ralston
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