Camping and climbing at Devil’s Lake State Park is awesome. Getting to share that with others is also great. Know what is even better? 
Getting to share it with others for FOUR days. Last week I got the privilege of working with a youth group from near my home town. We camped, we climbed, we swam, we explored a river, we jumped into the water, and best of all, we all learned about each other and the world around us. Taking this time to reflect and build relationships is truly what being a guide is all about.
I have worked at other camps and regardless of location, getting to work with kids and adults alike, you see a changes in them after spending time in the wilderness. Without some of the stimulations we see in every day life, people are different. I see calm, relaxed, open, excited, and more. I not only see it in others, but I see it in myself too.
When we take away those stimulations, we also create space for relationships to thrive in ways that those stimulations can push away. Not once throughout the whole four days was someone busy on their phone instead of giving someone their full attention. With our attention turned to each other and ourselves, we start to listen better, we start to interact better, and we make room for more. More of whatever it is that we need.
So as I reflect on my time in the wilderness and each day I am allowed to spend time outside, I start to see myself more fully. I am better at achieving results when challenged. I have better, deeper, more solid relationships. And best of all, I am more of the best parts of me.
If you have time, check out what the world around us does to you.
– Jill Griffis
Reflections of a Guide