Once upon a time in 1996, there was a brave and knowledgeable caver named Dave Gill. He ventured into the depths of Borneo's Green Cathedral Cave, armed with his trusty Suunto survey equipment. However, Dave's approach to using the equipment was rather unique. Unlike the typical protocol of closing one eye to get an accurate reading, he kept both eyes open, showcasing his deep knowledge and expertise in cave mapping.
It was during this expedition that an unforgettable incident occurred. As Dave and I explored Green Cathedral Cave in Buda, Borneo, I suddenly found myself straddling a massive rock in the shape of a surfboard. Without warning, the rock shot down a slippery slope, with me clambering to maintain my balance. It was as if I had unintentionally found myself on a wild ride.
Remaining calm and collected, I managed to ride the surfboard-shaped rock down the slope and leapt off just in time. To my surprise, as I landed, I discovered a dark pit full of treacherous depths. Wrapped around a protrusion near the pit's edge was a large cave racer snake, its gaze fixed upon me. Realizing the perilous situation I had narrowly avoided, a chill ran down my spine.
In that critical moment, I heard Dave's concerned voice echoing down the slime-covered slope, asking if I was alright. Feeling a mixture of relief and adrenaline, I assured him that I was indeed fine, thanks to my previous experience as a professional snowboarder. If not for my familiarity with balance and quick reflexes gained from snowboarding, the outcome could have been far more dangerous.
It was at this point that I truly understood the extraordinary love Dave held for these caves. Despite the constant threats that surrounded us, he remained steadfast in his determination to explore and understand their beauty. Every living creature seemed to vie for a piece of us, recognizing us as intruders in their domain. Yet, Dave's passion for these mysterious underground worlds was unparalleled, driving him forward even in the face of danger.
After catching my breath and regaining composure, I reassured Dave that I was unharmed and ready to continue our exploration. Together, we braved the perils of the cave, knowing that our shared love for discovery would guide us deeper into the unknown, where untamed wonders and potential danger lay intertwined.
I will always remember those moments with Dave and also those which were meaningless in between, such as waiting in a jungle camp while the heavy rain hampered any travel, yet recalling stories of past endeavors of great discoveries and mutual interests in UK music bands of Hawkwind that had shaped our universe.
Dave quickly became one of my favorite mentors and left me with a passion to pursue these international expeditions which carried me far beyond my imagination and it did not stop giving ever.
Caves bridge us together, cavers make life meaningful and full of purpose. Everything on the surface vanishes and only what's at hand in front of us is all that really matters.
I know now Dave would be pleased with how it all went down, keeping all those at cool while grimness abounded ahead.
In his recent departure, it is very saddening to hold on to the thorns, but once I held a rose.
