A hike, a lesson learned: Thoughts come into focus

Dating back to the “camera obscura” to the integration of AI-powered cameras and everything in between, photography is constantly evolving.  

Major advancements in technology have revolutionized the way we take, share and store pictures.  

On the surface photographs are just a snapshot but can indeed reveal certain aspects about a person, place, or thing.

I like browsing through photos.  It helps me to reflect and ponder the many different season’s of my life.  Snapshots trigger memory, help tell a story, teach a lesson.

Boxes, albums, my computer, and phone are filled with pictures that reveal a few clues about my personality and character, and offer a glimpse into my life.  Certain people, places, events, are all part of my story. 

I was looking through some of my albums just the other day and found some that brought me a chuckle and reminded me of what is of utmost importance.

In November of 2016,  I was invited to go on a hike, as a chaperone with the senior-high youth of my church. 

I  am always looking for opportunities to connect with God through nature. So, I accepted.

Perfect timing for me to try out the pricey digital device that my husband had recently purchased.  

Now, he is not a professional photographer, but he did do a lot of research and decided that a camera with a wide-angle lens would be best for capturing pictures of various landscapes - perfect for those outdoor adventures. 

“Can I borrow your camera tomorrow for the hike?”  I asked him.

“Sure.”

Packing my lunch and water, donning comfortable clothing, hiking boots, sunscreen, and bug spray, I headed out the door. 

“Honey, you forgot the camera!”  he said.

“Thanks, dear!”

All aboard!  The bus was packed with kids and a couple of responsible leaders.  It was a beautiful fall day and although a bit too warm for this gal, I was excited for the challenge ahead.  More importantly, I had an opportunity to hopefully impact the life of a few kids.

Located in Lexington near the Natural Bridge Station in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is the Devil’s Marbleyard.  Accessible via Belfast Trail, it is roughly a 3.2 mile loop hike specifically within the congressionally designated James River Face Wilderness area. 

Prior to the start, a small group of kids was assigned to me, and they would accompany me on the trek up the mountain.  We were instructed to remain together at all times, and encourage one another during the journey.

The adventure began as a fairly flat and basic hike for about a mile and then transitioned to a slight uphill incline.  So far, so good.

“Great job, everyone.”  “Look at me,”  I said. Click.

Hike on!

The trail leads to the bottom of a gigantic field of boulders that reaches further than can be seen at the base.  The view looking up the mountain was an incredible sight to see. 

I was not thrilled about the height, nor the intimidating rock scrambles that the hike presented, but enamoured with what appeared to be a ginormous puzzle. 

The detailed image the lens in the camera presented was perfect for focusing on the awesome view.  Click.

“Take your time, be safe and climb smart. Let’s do this!” I said. 

“Hey, everyone turn around. Smile!”  Click.  

“Mrs. Seay, would you like for me to put your camera in my backpack so you don’t have to carry it up the rocks?”  one kid offered.

“No, but thank you.”  

“Well, alright.  Don’t drop it.”

Onward!

Up and over. Up and over. Up and over.

“Everyone, freeze.”  Click.

“Beautiful!  Let’s keep going.”

Kerplunk.  Kerplunk.  Kerplunk.  

“Mrs. Seay, did you just drop your camera?” 

Spouting out a word or two that for certain sealed my imperfections, my voice resounded loud and clear to those nearest me within the massive forms of granite on that mountainside.  

The name, Devil’s Marbleyard, speaks for itself.  Passing the blame.

I was not proud of my choice of verbiage and quite embarrassed, to say the least.  So much for being a chaperone.  My brother-in-law did not help matters as he just had to share his two cents worth of jibberish.  Thanks, Steve.

When you make a mistake, apologize.

My camera fell somewhere within the depths of the rocks with no hope of ever retrieving it. 

Moving on.

Up and over.  Up and over.  Up and over.

Finally, the top was in clear view.  I was so thankful to be standing on the flatland safe and sound.  

Overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, I saw beautiful vistas and vibrant colors of fall.  Absolutely stunning.  

News travels fast, though.

My son, who had been waiting on me, said, “Mom, where’s your camera?” 

“Will someone please just take our picture?” I asked.

Photos were not a total bust -  a few were given to me by the one who offered to carry my camera in her backpack.  Thankfully, memories from that day are etched in my mind and a few printed and posted in my album. 

Looking back on that adventure I recall the scenic expanse of Devil’s Marble Yard.  It not only offered an exhilarating hiking experience, and gorgeous landscape views but a few thoughts to ponder regarding my personal life.

When I am offensive, rude, wrong - am I quick to say “I’m sorry?”  

Do I “count it all joy” when faced with various trials? 

How about graciously forgiving those who have offended me?  Do I hold a grudge? 

When life circumstances don’t make sense, where do I turn for help?

What lens am I using to navigate the path of my life? What is my focus?

Dr. Dustin W. Benge is an associate professor of biblical spirituality and historical theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY.  

He said: “Either Scripture will be the lens through which you view the world, or the world will be the lens through which you view Scripture. Ultimately one or the other will be your authority.”

I couldn't agree more. Filtering my circumstances through the lens of scripture guides me in gaining a broader view with an eternal perspective.

Click.