I find myself smiling, however, as I look up at the mountain peaks rising in the distance along the highway. My eyes go up and beyond the peaks and I notice the clouds floating there over the trail. I suddenly feel the strong presence of my dad once again, looking down upon me in this new adventure.
A year ago I was stepping out of an SUV and onto a mountain trail, walking away from all the certainties of my life, and walking toward a great unknown adventure waiting to be lived and experienced. I was headed north the long way around, along the Appalachian Trail.
This morning, I find myself climbing back into a car and heading in the same direction. This time, however, I will travel the interstate northward, only being able to cast my eyes up at the great mountain range that hosted my travels the year before. My journey is taking me into northern Virginia, where I will attend a weekend Summit for ministry organizations across the country who work within the disability community. My goal is to make contacts and spread awareness for The Hope Connection, our soon to begin online community for families raising children and adults with disabilities.
Last year at this time a was a novice to the trail. I didn't know how much I didn't know! I started with simple passion, time and experience would do the rest. Today I feel the same way. I'm driving toward a meeting with seasoned professionals who have walked the trail of ministry for many years. All I carry with me is a passion to see people helped and a simple idea that I am convinced will make a difference.
On April 3rd last year, as I took my first steps north from the trail's beginning at Springer Mountain, I walked with a stranger that was soon to become one of the closest friends I have ever known. I am convinced that God placed him there in that mountain clearing just for me. In the weeks to come, we not only grew to be close friends, he was also my mentor. During our time together I was discipled in the ways of the trail and learned the skills it would take to go on alone through the rest of my journey.
Part of my purpose and goal last summer was to raise an awareness of the needs of the disability community. This year I am focused on doing something that will make a difference in meeting those needs. As I drive north today, I can't help but wonder if God doesn't have another "Highlander" up ahead to walk with me for a way. I wonder about all the others I will meet along the trail and the stories and experiences that will come out of those encounters.
It was crazy to set out last year thinking I could survive a summer backpacking on a mountain trail. It is even crazier to think that I have anything to offer that can truly make a difference to families overwhelmed by the challenges of life. I find myself smiling, however, as I look up at the mountain peaks rising in the distance along the highway. My eyes go up and beyond the peaks and I notice the clouds floating there over the trail. I suddenly feel the strong presence of my dad once again, looking down upon me in this new adventure.
Don't worry, Dad. I'm still "stirring the pot!"
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