faithrunner

At the summit crater Guided by RMI Guides , Geoff and Bridgette at about 0850 PDT on 12 August 2013 we crested the summit of Mt Rainier, WA . Few other thrills have matched the accomplishment and exertion of effort. Although the wind and blowing snow only allowed us about 20 minutes in the crater of the summit, I savored every second. I carried a flag to honor those on my new journey with B. H. Carroll Theological Institute . I want that flag to represent all who are part of that community of faith and learning as they reach the summits to which God has called them.  Me crossing the ice bridge We left Camp Muir about 0100, and began our climb on the Disappointment Cleaver route . By the time we reached the top of the cleaver, three of our group had turned back. As I sat where I turned back two years ago, I knew I would make it unless something outside my control happened.  The Ice Step The most frightening section of the climb was the sect...

Here are some things I learned from my attempt to summit Mt. Rainier on August, 25, 2011. First, Creation is still larger than its creatures . I live in a manufactured suburb where we sometimes live by the false assumption that we are in control of our environment and that we are bigger than the land upon which we live. Get out at the base of Mt. Rainier--after driving through the beautiful Mt. Rainier National Park --and you will soon realize how small you are. Get ON the mountain, and you are humbled by how small you really are and how big are the things of God. I am glad the Psalmists lived in Creation rather than in the urban sprawls we have made for ourselves. Second, you are at your best in the footsteps of a guide . I know that some treasure the pioneering spirit of those who head out on uncharted paths, but most of us need a guide. The guides of RMI , Billy, Zeb, and Cody , trained, encouraged, and led us. They also made the trip safe and fun. Don't try something like...