AT

Hike Weekend

This past weekend, I went on a small hike up to the Appalachian trail. It was a treacherous journey, but it challenged me. It caused me to ponder what we have been talking about in class. I hiked with two of my best friends. On my way, up to the top of the mountain, that asked me about my current classes. I began to describe to them what I have been learning in my class, “Sacred Communication, Sacred Journeys.” It was an incredible opportunity to be able to explain to them how the Appalachian trail is a sacred place. I then explained to them the four axioms, and many definitions I’ve learned in this course so far. Then, I challenged us to reflect and ponder our narrative thus far in life. We discussed how God’s beauty is evident all around us. The thing that stood out the most to me the most was the peacefulness and stillness on the trail. The beauty of peace spoke to me. I realized what are rare occurrence it is to dwell in a place of silence in our everyday lives. My friends and I decided to delete our social media for a week. In place of our social media we are trying to do simple things like walk to class instead of drive. In this past week, I have learned that slowing down teaches us. It teaches us to be fully present. It teaches us to leave the village at home. It teaches us to think for ourselves and observe. It teaches us to listen and learn from our surroundings. When we are fully present, that’s when God will speak.