choices
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round two

Already I’m nostalgic for what I just wanted to finish not so long ago. The simplicity. The minimalism. The rhythm of the day-to-day routine. Having only one focus, one requirement, one goal—to walk. Long days, big miles, pushing and challenging yourself. Out of your head and in your body. I didn’t love it or like Continue reading
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walking the length of an island

Why do you walk eight, nine, 10 hours a day? In any weather and conditions, on whatever tracks or pavement or gravel or dirt or sand or grass, through deep mud or rushing water—anything the day brings? In whatever environment, from muggy subtropical forest to beaches to farmland to towns or cities to quiet or Continue reading
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“the long path”

The longest backpacking trip I’ve done to date is eight days in the Patagonia region of Chile, averaging around 10 miles a day when it was all said and done. Now, I’m planning to thru-hike New Zealand’s north island for at least two months, hoping to average more like 15-18 miles a day during the Continue reading
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seven years

Seven years ago I packed my silver two door Honda Civic to the brim and moved to Big Sky. I had been living back home in PA for a year after spending a long year abroad, teaching English in Thailand and roaming around parts of central and southeast Asia. Not once have I regretted the Continue reading
choices, Christianity, Faith, God, home, hope, Jesus, Montana, movement, reflections, spirituality, Trust -
natural & miraculous (part 2)

On many occasions God has already given us what we need in how he’s made us and who he’s brought into our lives. I do believe there are moments when the out-of-the-ordinary (the supernatural) breaks through, something inexplicable beyond our ability or effort. But much of the time we’re living very ordinary, natural lives (which Continue reading
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natural & miraculous (part 1)

When faced with life decisions or everyday choices there are many simple spiritual answers: “Just pray about it. Just wait on God. Just have faith. Just trust God.” As if we have no responsibility or hard work of our own, or freedom to choose our own path. The way I see it now is that Continue reading
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choices

A year ago I made the difficult decision to change jobs. I had worked for my church for a year and a half as a next generation pastor—mostly with youth and young adults, among other things. I felt almost guilty for leaving. I had an enviable ministry job in a beautiful ski town. I left Continue reading