Introduction
People have been known to act in extraordinary ways to survive. Perhaps it has something to do with the brutal, distinctly human ability to adapt to anything or the reminder that the Earth can be a shocking yet abundant place. Still, wilderness survival stories are always some of the most fascinating. I want to discuss two stories that have affected me in a great way. The first one is a real-life story from 172 Hours, and the second is from the film The Day After Tomorrow.
Discussion
Aron Ralston, the real person behind James Franco’s character in 172 Hours, went hiking in Canyonlands National Park in 2003. Aaron went hiking alone and got in an accident when an 800-pound boulder broke his left hand and pinned it to the canyon. He could not call for help and, as a result, was stuck in the canyon for five days. Aaron slowly consumed all his food and water and was forced to drink his urine. Unable to move and without water for five days, Aaron believed that he would not survive unless he freed himself. He decided to amputate his pinned arm using his pocketknife. To me, this is a story about empowerment; Ralston did not want to die and did everything he could to survive. Basic universal life-saving competencies include protecting and securing an airway or, in this case, amputating own arm (Kirkpatrick & McKee, 2021). Ralston was only 27 years old when it happened. He showed tremendous levels of determination to save himself, which enabled him to cut off his hand. Someone else could have given up in his place, but Aaron did not. This is an example of true willpower, resolve, and empowerment.
Another example of survival in an extreme situation is from the film The Day After Tomorrow. In this movie, the whole world faces an apocalypse, which is caused by floods and by an extreme temperature drop. The main characters gather in the New York public library and do their best to survive. They burn books to keep the cold away and take missions outside to find food and supplies. The story also tells about a father who has to travel across the states in extreme conditions to find his son in that library. The human body has thermoregulatory mechanisms that adapt to ambient temperature and maintain normal core body temperature for physiological functions (Ashima, 2020). However, this story shows not only biological adaptability but also willpower to survive and save their child. We always hear stories about how adrenaline drives mothers to push cars away from their children. However, this story shows determination and willfulness to overcome all obstacles to ensure your child’s survival. This is another story of parental love and empowerment.
Conclusion
Both stories, 172 Hours and The Day After Tomorrow, show examples of wilderness survival. Even though one is a real-life example and the other is purely fictional, they demonstrate human nature and the willingness to survive. They are inspiring and moving because the main characters show that they do not give up and do all in their power to stay alive. They are also motivational and encourage you to do your best in life. Examples of survival stories are the most encouraging and hopeful. Moreover, they inspire you to appreciate your life and those around you.
References
Ashima, R. S. (2020). Global warming threatens human thermoregulation and survival. The Journal of Clinical Investigation. Web.
Kirkpatrick, A. W. & McKee, J. L. (2021). Empowering catastrophic far-forward self-care: Nobody should die alone without trying. Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health.