The Hiking Evangelist

Ahmma & Dumpa came into town for a visit, and the day after they arrived we left for a hiking adventure at Silver Falls State Park.  People often call it the "crown jewel"of the Oregon State Park System, but after living in Oregon for almost nine years this was our first visit.  The park's most famous feature is the Trail of Ten Falls, so that's what we did.  We began hiking together with McKinley and Dumpa setting a brisk pace while Piper, Tessa and I brought up the rear.  Eventually we split up, with Ahmma & Dumpa taking the longer route back to the lodge.  The trail was fairly flat, but after two hours of hiking Piper got to ride in the backpack.  I honestly was super shocked that Piper lasted for two hours because no less than five minutes into the hike she was already complaining about her legs hurting.  Tessa also did amazing.  I think this was the first time she was in the backpack for an extended period of time, and she was a trooper.  She got giddy every time she saw the creek or heard running water and even took a power nap while I supported her head and neck with my elbow.  McKinley, by far, was the biggest surprise.  She was enthusiastic, energetic and determined, but what blew me away the most was her boldness and compassion.  Towards the end of the hike when Dadda had picked up the pace and I was lagging behind, McKinley decided to stay with me and wanted to hold my hand.  She then told me about the Great Commission, which she learned in Sunday school the previous Sunday, and how our jobs were to tell everyone that Jesus loves them.  So that's just what she did.  Everyone we passed on the trail, she smiled at them and said, "Jesus loves you."  The hiker's responses varied: some walked by without looking at her, some smiled back, and some even snickered.  Despite all of it, she was so undeterred.   And in those moments I was so in awe of her, but mostly inspired by her.