Looking Glass Mnt trail
When I first heard of missions I had assumed that only certain are to be reached for the Gospel, inner city, homeless, poor and various others, Little did I know that I was to go back to those who had taught me how to pick myself up when I was down. When I was going through the final phases of divorce I wanted to go on an adventure to help me feel alive again. A man needs adventure and a challenge to give him health and life.
Outward Bound Base Camp deep in the Pisgah Ntl Park
I looked into going kayaking in New Zealand or the far fetched cruising the Greek Isles, but with only a limited budget I found an adventure that was far more cost effective, but no less a challenge to a mans heart, an Outward Bound Hiking/ Canoeing 8 day course. In the suburbs of the Appalachians in North Carolina I found myself Hiking at least 5-10 miles each day. Whether it was raining or hot I was no more happy than I was being lost in the forest and Hills of North Carolina.
I remember that when I was young I would always be outdoors searching and exploring the woods or around town for some more undiscovered territory. No wonder have felt alive out here in North Carolina in the midst of the green Mnts.
My Friend Chavo Maintenance man extraordinar
This past week I volunteered for work week at the Outward Bound Base Camp not knowing exactly what I was getting myself into, but ready to serve and do my best. I found myself soon with scrubber in hand cleaning mud dabbers off the main lodge where course instructors shared their meals and meetings and occasional deep conversation.
By the 3 day I was volunteered to help install flooring in the cabins where once allergy/ dust filled rugs where removed and replaced with simple free floating floors. It was funny, I went from apprentice to Flooring Master in Ten minutes, because my teacher was called away, not that I was good, but that I was available.
Ten Minute Expert at His Best
I was taking a walk on the last day and talking with God and wondering was my time out here affective, was I making a difference in these peoples lives, I know most of them where surprised that a student would return to help the teachers help the students by providing them a better work and lodging environment, most of these instructors are on the field (forest) from a week to three months. Still I wondered.
Ryan, Shannon, Caleb all Rock Climbing instructors great people
The last days were quickly approaching, I had not shared much if any of my faith, but diligently I continued to foster relationships and do well on the jobs given me. On the last day, I remember rounding the corner and all of a sudden the Spirit takes over and I am Sharing Jesus and the freedom He brings with one of the staff and His girlfriend. It just flows out of me.
The Spirit then allows me the chance to share at least two or three more times. The message is gratefully received, but alas the Source of the Message is not. I have made good friends however and hope that sometime in the future they may see the Love of Jesus the same way He has loved you and me.
Scooter the Courses/ Instructor coordinator and basic get job done guy
Like Paul I have planted and may the Lord Harvest the words of truth I have shared with these my friends of Outward Bound.
Thank you for giving and praying
Beyond the World Race training camps I have also found a love for being outdoors once again and may be pursing a path in this direction as the Lord leads.
Okay You people are all Awesome.
Chavo, Nathan, Jenny
