Third Lane Youth

I guess it all starts really last year, when P. Lee gave the challenge to hike to raise money for Speed The Light. Walking, 26 or so miles for STL sounds great but not to a Philly boy like my self. Last year it was only open to youth pastors to raise the money, I had something scheduled that weekend, and trust me, I wasn't going to reschedule anything to go walking, especially that long of a hike. Move forward to Sectional Fine Arts, when they showed a promo video for this year?s walk using a cool trailer style that featured footage from last year?s walk. I felt bad that I wasn't in that video. It looked like a lot of fun and empowering. There was something new to this year's walk, it was open to students to walk with their youth leaders. Surprising, was that there was a strong interest from the students of TLY and even some key Royal Rangers types. 

I can't say no to a student who wants to raise money for a good cause, especially STL. I was ready but not ready. Even up until the night before the walk I didn't know how I would fair on the Appalachian Trail, I was really nervous and probably drove Marisa nuts. I thank God for the group that we had, great leaders, and our experienced trail guides, RR Commanders Scott and Tony. Once I got walking, I really enjoyed it. The sounds of nature, like rushing water, birds chirping, the wind blowing through the trees and leaves. Although, not all sounds were particularly encouraging to hear. Listening to gun shots of people hunting (I hope) was a little unnerving. I mean I hear gunshots in Philly but not like that..jk jk. It was so moving to hear God's creation, I mean, some people pay money to have these sounds on a CD to listen in the confines of an A/C office. 

There were times when the leaders could drive the van to the next check point to meet the students with supplies and refreshments. I only drove once, because I really got addicted to seeing the sights, talking with students, and doing something that required some physical energy. There is a sense of pride that you can't get from playing a video game or watching a movie, but accomplishing a task like this two day hike; you can.

It is so important to do something active.

It is so important to do something bigger than yourself.

It is so important to do something that you can never see yourself doing.

I want to say a special Thank You to the TLY students who rocked this trail and a HUGE Thank you to the RR commanders who were ready. Job well done.