HIKING WITH THE GUYS

Today I’d like to lift up a weekly opportunity for men. Each Saturday men from Easter (and any friends who want to join) gather at Lebanon Hills off of Johnny Cake Ridge Road at 10am to hike. 

Hiking in the winter? You have to remember. I lived in Las Vegas for 17 years. My idea of cold is a brief dip into the 30s for a couple days of the year. When I first heard that ManUp suggested that we hike outside, I thought they were nuts. Just being honest. Then I thought, “It is Minnesota. I always tell the kids to not knock something until they try it.” 

So, I bundled up the layers and made my way over to the hiking trails. For the record, I’m really thankful for the Bala Kava I received as a gift this year. It covers my neck, ears, and head in one shot. Very nice. 

A group of men, equally bundled, stood in the parking lot. Beneath the fur-lined hats and masks I could see eyes that were hungry for human interaction in 3-dimensions. Zoom is nice but being in person is so much better.  

We started off on the trail and I just prayed to God that I would not slip and break something. One of the men fell into step beside me and we started chatting. We exchanged information about our families and our work. Before I knew it we had walked a mile and I was actually feeling warm, comfortable, and safe. 

This band of hiking men has been meeting for several weeks now. It may be cold outside, but warm hearts and warm conversations make this weekly event a life-giving spring of fresh water for thirsty souls. 

Men of Easter, join us. It’ll warm your heart.