A few weeks ago, a hiking friend posted on social media her thoughts about acceptance and the wilderness. She ended by saying, “In nature, though, I’ve found myself more at peace than ever before. The water, trees, and critters…
But God Loves Them!
I was talking with a friend about last week’s post. Our conversation diverged into some of the truly lovely people we have met on our respective travels. The people who blessed us when we needed it most, the people who…
Seasons and Faithfulness
In the beginning of the world, God set out time. He created seasons to mark time and to prove His faithfulness through the years. “And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to…
God With Us
We’re celebrating Christmas in less than another week. It’s a very exciting time around here; so many piles of packages, the Christmas tree in the living room, not to mention Christmas baking, opening Christmas cards, singing Christmas carols, and reading…
We Don’t Always Have a Map
I try to prepare for hikes. Before we leave home, I’ll try to have a trail description, a map, if possible, and better yet, to have the necessary maps downloaded on my GPS. But sometimes I forget, or I think…
Awe in the Wilderness Heals
In the article I mentioned last week concerning research done by the Sierra Club, REI, and the University of Berkeley, the researchers found an interesting correlation between emotional healing and the experience of those who came out into the wilderness.…
The Wilderness Heals
I read an article a couple weeks ago about some tests conducted by the Sierra Club, REI, and University of Berkeley. The participants were those who had experienced significant trauma and were exhibiting symptoms of PTSD. The testing field was…
May the Lord Take Joy in All He Has Made
Everything I am will praise and bless the Lord! O Lord, my God, your greatness takes my breath away, overwhelming me by your majesty, beauty, and splendor! You wrap yourself with a shimmering, glistening light. You wear sunshine like a…
God’s Extravagance in the Wilderness
In the wilderness, we see God’s great extravagance. I can walk up into the mountains and see the snowcapped peaks that most eyes will never see. That doesn’t make them any less beautiful; they are as beautiful or even…
It is Practical to Love the Wilderness
I happen to be a very practical person. Which is probably why the facts and figures of how to hike a trail come pretty naturally to me, along with planning trips and even normal everyday life. Because of my practicality,…