Trek Then and Now

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Trek Then and Now

Last week we experienced an event two years in the making…Stake Youth Trek.

There was nothing easy about this 3-day “experience”... with approximately 150 youth and adults re-enacting a mid-1800s handcart journey on the west side of Utah Lake.

Our theme for the trek was as comforting as it was appropriate…

“Trust in the Lord” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

To be completely candid, at my age and lack of physical conditioning, I had doubts about my ability to physically complete the 20+ mile journey in very hot weather.

I’m sure others had those same misgivings.

But, as we walked…and walked…and walked… we found strength and faith as prayers were answered over and over again. It was heartwarming and impressive to see the youth of our Zion Stake grow closer together, show genuine concern for each other and “wend their way” with joy as the miles wore on.

Of course, we enjoyed pioneer dances and pioneer games. I’m still feeling the effects of stick pulling. And we ate so well thanks to our Food Committee. And thanks to our Logistics Committee we had a safe, clean place to sleep each night. And throughout it all…we received wonderful instruction from inspired youth leaders accented by beautiful music.

We learned that those who first settled and built here were a lot like us when they started their journey…unsure of their abilities, perhaps out of shape, unskilled at camping, and travel in the wilderness. We also learned that at least half of those who came west to tame these mountain valleys were under 18.

They were the “builders” and founders of whom we sing so fondly. I think this knowledge made our trek a lot more relevant for many of our number.

Through this experience, we gained greater compassion for their struggles, leaving behind loved ones and homes. We wondered what kind of faith it would take for us to do the same.

But, perhaps our greatest gain from this experience was something much more profound than appreciation…

We gained a personal witness that we too must trust in the Lord for our specific needs today.

He will come through for us just as He did for them.

President Pratt taught us that we are all pioneers on a journey back to our Father in Heaven. Regardless of where we might be on our journey, we can always trust in our Savior…He will carry us. He will rescue us. And we can all extend a hand to “rescue” someone who is struggling…who may need our support…and help them come to the Savior.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone who helped in any way. We are in your debt…”blessed, honored pioneers”.

I love you.

President Gardner