In just a few hours, we will be packing vehicles and saying goodbye to the Badlands. Our time here has come to a close and we will be on the road again, destination - home. Whenever I stay an extended period of time in a place and must leave, I feel like I am leaving something of myself behind. There are footprints that I’ve left on these eroding hills. Water that I’ve spilled from my canteen. I’ve breathed this air and have processed it through my body, expelling carbon dioxide. In this place, I have been at my best and not-so-best as I’ve interacted with others. I can only wish that in balance that my presence was positive or at least neutral.
This morning, as we prepare to depart, I wonder what prints our group has left on this soil. Another way of asking the question is, ‘what kind of witness did we give?’ Were we humble as we walked over this ground? Did we show honor and respect to the land and the people that call this place home? Were our actions and words reflective of God’s love and compassion?
From each place that I’ve been, in addition to leaving something behind, I’ve gained something as well. My story is made richer with each stop along my travels. I gain knowledge and experience. There is something to learn and reflect upon. I’ve created a memory to be treasured.
Though I can’t script what others will recall from our time together in this amazing place, As I write the final of my travel blogs in the Badlands, I know that our experiences this week are the good stuff whence memories form. Into the space of five days, we packed in a LOT. From hikes to pool time to wildlife safari to ranger star talks, to campfires, to sleeping in tents during a rain storm we went and did quite a bit. We also learned about each other and grew as friends. I am grateful for the way that each person brought something special to our adventure as a whole.
When our vehicles leave the White River/Badlands KOA, it is my prayer that we will leave this place with stories to tell of the time that we adventured west to the Badlands.
Thank you for following this travel blog.
In Christ’s Light,
Walt