Even though graduation from high school opens doors to a wide spectrum of choices, many students find that their lives are still tied to a list of expectations that they have carried since birth. When I was asked what I would do if I had an entire year free of all obligations, initially I had no idea. But then I realized that there are a number of things that I would really like to do that I just do not have time for amid all of my other commitments. So rather than spend the year abroad or dedicate myself to some cause, I would take time to spoil myself with life’s little indulgences and accomplish a few things that I may or may not ever get a chance to after college.

One of my favorite things to do is to go mountain climbing, but since I have always had to work during the summer I have never had the luxury of spending more than a few days enjoying the beauty of the mountains. So, as soon as school lets out in May, I would b

e on my way to Colorado to take advantage of what I consider God’s most beautiful creations.

Mountain climbing is an extraordinary experience because it gives me a great sense of accomplishment and many of life’s lessons are revealed during the tedious journey to the top. For one, it teaches you to have faith. Just like with life’s challenges, when you are suspended on a rock face by only a rope, you must learn to have faith in the rope, because like God, without it you will fall. Also, you learn never to give up. As in life, the trail may become difficult, but if you are steadfast and find strength in the Lord, He will help you to reach the prize at the end, which in this case is the most spectacular view I have ever beheld. Like the lyrics to a Caedmon’s Call song state, “I had to walk the rocks to see the mountain view”. For me, these words hold true in life as well as on the mountain, because with both, the goal is well worth the obstacles I must overcome. At the end of the summer, the peaks I would have added to my list would be a reminder to me that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

One of the most exciting things about working with children is that I receive just as much from our time together as the child does. At that age the most effective way to witness to a child is to set a good example by building their trust and demonstrating God’s kindness. One of the ways our Father cares for

Some topics in this essay:
Corvette Stingrays, Year Challenge, Caedmon’s Call, , mountain climbing,