Back to God’s Country

Most people think of the natural attributes when they vision Washington State in their minds, and I must admit the mountains and valleys did draw me to this area of the country many years ago.  Then I started working in the city, and I have taken weekend vacations now and then outside of the city. The pull of family responsibilities and the growth of this church, and the young ministry in particular, seemed to draw me away from the scenic areas.  The same happened to the children of the church with their own set of concerns and priorities.  This was a problem.

I began a exercise program as part of my youth ministry with consultation with one of our doctors in the church to generally improve the health of those in my charge.  It helped me to, since I had to set the example.  There was another incentive.   Those that showed the most improvement were in a select group of children who had a higher challenge… a week-long camping and hiking trip provided by a travel agency and a wilderness outfitter both owned by members of the congregation.

We went in the North Cascades to the East Pasayten Wilderness.  We camped in the Horseshoe Basin area and hiked 5 to 10 miles a day.  This is a land of immense natural beauty on the extreme eastern end of the North Cascades.   Horseshoe Basin has long been a favorite destination for backpackers and day trips.

With sprawling alpine tundra, amazing fall colors in the changing trees, several wide-open, easy-to-scramble summits, and spectacular wildlife observations, we had to stay a whole week. For us city slickers, Horseshoe Basin’s fairly easy approach and gentle terrain made it easier for us than other places in the state. In each hike, there was around a 900-foot gain in elevation through larches, meadows, open slopes, lakes, streams, waterfalls to the Sunny Basin area.

I also learned more about the children, many of whom had never camped in the woods. It was an experience we will never forget.  The exercise program was much needed before such an outing.

The city called and I returned to a routine for my life and family, but I was a different person after the trip. The children went back to school and their friends, but I’m sure part of their life is different.  Being in the middle of God’s beauty has a way changing most everyone. By the way, the exercise program continues for the youth in the church, and now some of the adults have joined the classes.

Peace be you with always,

Rev. Paul Abernathy

“Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” -2 Peter 1:2

Contact Paul Abernathy at paulabernathy@gmail.com.

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