Rock climbing makes us present, and put us back in touch with our innermost feelings of being humans. It takes away all the complexities of the day to day life and make life simple again, here, now.
Rock climbing also comes with its downturns: the time and dedication vs the toll on relationships and other “work”, and most important, the risk it incurs. Is it worth it?
I believe this answer needs to be approached with care. Worth it what? Accidents can happen any time, to anyone, including diseases and other imperils of life. I think that as long one is within their abilities, and their risk intake, I do believe it is worth it to go after the outdoors, to be fit and maintain a lifestyle in sync with adventure and sports.
It is worth noting that many of rock climbing heroes are dead, including many top notch talent. In contrast, some are also well and alive, and seemed to find the perfect balance between adventure at the highest level and being alive.