Hi, my name is Everlasting. I know what you are thinking. What an absurd name, what a paradox, as no one can last forever except in paradise.  Well, I’m not sure who gave me the name, but I like it. It gives me the power to grow in an environment where many would not dare to visit.

I am one of those rare creations who can survive in extreme conditions. Between 4000 and 5000 meters above sea level, in a semi-arid zone, where there are no trees and few plants, is where I call home. It is called the alpine desert. I encounter a few people who pass by this area on their way to the ice-capped summit, the highest peak in Africa. These few people are the tough ones that have refused to give up and are aiming for the highest point. Like me, they must believe in the saying, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars” (Norman Vincent Peale).

Being near the summit, even in these harsh conditions makes me feel like I am aiming high. Sure, it gets lonely sometimes, but I have my few like-minded friends for encouragement and intellectual conversation. There are other survivors like the sky-blue gentians, hearty helichrysums, and asters. I greet spiders and small insects when they are on their journeys looking for food.

Mind you, being alone is good for you, not like how some people may think. I’m not anti-social or unwanted; I just choose to focus on what I think I’ve been created for. I mean, surely, God created me and placed me in this harsh environment because He knew I have it in me to endure this hardship. I may be the envy of some who fail to understand my courage and audacity: to thrive and flourish between moss and thistles.

I get inspired when I look up and glance at the stunning view of the craters of Mawenzi and the snow-crowned summit Kibo. I have accepted the drought-like conditions, where vegetation is sparse and sunlight is intense. I have accepted My Creator’s choice for me. See, the sooner you know your role in life, the better for you. Finally, I have realized that my function is to give hope to those who may lose hope in this harsh environment with its intense weather. I am the glow and beauty in this desert-garden.

I know my role. Do you know yours?