Mogens responded to our questions by e-mail from his home in Denmark in December 2006.
How has Everest changed you (or not)? If this is not your first time on the mountain, how was it different this time?
Everest allows you to move up and look down into yourself. It offers nowhere to hide, so what you see is what you get. You learn crucial things about yourself, the people around you and that nature is second to none. I put myself in perspective.
During my two expeditions to Everest I have learned that every second counts, that life is way too short to do anything but the things you really have a burning desire for. Everest widens my comfort zones and allows me to be able to do more in everyday life.
The film captured how you felt immediately after your summit attempt. How do you feel now? Is there a letdown after such an intense experience?
Since I wasn't fortunate enough to summit due to AMS (acute mountain sickness) I am back in training mode, preparing to return next year for "three-time lucky."
The initial period after the expedition was hollow because of the disappointment from not summiting. But my philosophy in life is, "Fall seven times, stand up eight !" So I'll be back ...
How has your experience affected your relationships with others (at home and those you met on the mountain)? Are loved ones concerned about you? Why?
On the mountain I met many fascinating people, some of whom will always be my friends.
Also, the Sherpas are a huge asset to anyone who gets to know them. You can only be humbled by their kindness and helpfulness, and use them as an example of how to treat other people.
My loved ones will never get rid of the anxiety when I am away. The mountains pose a potential risk, so because they are not there or know life in the mountains, they always fear something will go wrong.
It gets better as time goes by, though. I have shown that I can make the right decisions in troubled times and don't gamble with my life unnecessarily.
Will you go back to Everest? Why?
I will return to Everest next year for "three-time lucky." I still have the ambition to summit without Os [supplemental oxygen] and know it is possible for me!
My mind is clear now, since I am no longer in a mentally draining relationship that left me depleted of extra resources needed when the going gets tough.
Are you planning any new adventures?
First and foremost, it's "Big E" again next year. Afterward I will find new adventures, for sure—maybe the biggest one, which is starting a family.
