The Boy Scouts of America recommends that Scout Troops go on an overnight camp at least once a month. The hope is that regular outdoor adventures will help young men be active in the troop and participate in other character-building activities. I have tried to take this counsel to heart, and have not been disappointed in the results. 

This month I wanted to get a little more off the beaten path (I have decided there is no reason in the world to take Scouts to an organized camp ground when you live in a place like Utah). So, off we went, not really sure where we would end up. Left fork of Hobble Creek canyon led us to what I assume is a rather unknown canyon: Bartholomew Canyon. It may have involved passing through private land (with permission), and some very rough roads, if you could call them roads at all. And we found ourselves here...

The following morning the boys wanted to continue the drive into the middle of nowhere, so we did. We passed some cows, and continued through some rather rough terrain. The road eventually turned into a four-wheeler path, but we continued to follow (was that a mistake?) until we could go no further. The boys hopped out and led us on a two mile hike up the mountain, following cow trails to the summit of the nearest peak.

Why share this weekend adventure with you? Because it was something new for me. I don't like not being in control of a situation, especially when parents have entrusted their children to me. But I just couldn't bear to go on another run-of-the-mill campouts. I, and the Scouts, needed change. But that change didn't come comfortably. I think this is common with most changes we desire in life. But the rewards are incredible. Waking up to a serene view from a remote clearing in the mountains, ascending to the top of peak, and looking off into the distance to only see green mountains for a hundred miles. It was worth the personal discomfort.

Next time you feel like change is needed, and things get a little uncomfortable, don't be afraid to press on. Great things lie in store. Maybe even a cow or two...