HIKING
My Favorite Hobby
As I laced up my hiking boots and slung my backpack over my shoulder, a rush of excitement surged through me. My husband and I were embarking on a five-day trek through the mountains, surrounded by towering peaks and lush forest. We would walk, climb, and soak in the beauty of the wilderness. The night before our journey, we spent the day preparing—gathering food, filling our bear vault and backpacks. But as the evening wore on, a familiar pain returned: the tendons in my ankle began to throb. These tendons are the thorn in my flesh—usually quiet, but prone to sudden, painful flare-ups. By Saturday morning, I couldn’t walk. The planning, the anticipation, the joy—all felt wasted. What was I to do? I pleaded with God as I continued packing our gear, blinking away tears. I finally turned to my husband and shared my fear. His patience and comfort wrapped around me as he gently said, “Let’s just go.” “Can we pray?” I asked. Hands intertwined, we sat at the breakfast table and pleaded with God for a blessing—a miracle. And He answered. The promised land of these hills did not disappoint. Scrambling over rocks, climbing mountains, sleeping beneath the stars, I found myself overwhelmed with gratitude. I thanked my Heavenly Father for this miraculous gift.