A few of my friends do this cute little Flash Back Friday thing where they tell about a memory from way back when. I love the idea and since I have Fridays off, it seems like a good thing to occupy my time.
So, in honor of the holiday weekend, I would like to flash back to summer 2001. At 13 years-old I was reluctantly having a seed planted that would grow into a passion for my pioneer ancestry.
At 13 years-old I was even more girly than I am today (is that even possible?) and I did not understand how anyone could see how me sleeping in the dirt, wearing ugly DI clothes, and walking all day in the hot sun could be seen as a faith promoting experience. With true teenage angst I imagined this to be just another way that adults were out to ruin my life (in an, i'll admit, creative new way).
Surprisingly, spending 3 days roaming a cattle ranch in the middle of Wyoming, pulling a handcart was inspirational and somewhat life changing for me. I was enlightened by the stories I heard of the brave pioneers, and proud to know that my own ancestors were among those strong enough to make the trek west.
The most meaningful moments for me took place during the infamous Womens Pull.
I'll never forget the feeling I had as I watched my 'Pa and brothers' walk away and knew that it was up to us women to haul this handcart up the hill. I imagined what it would be like to watch my own father and brothers walk away and not know when or if I would ever see them again. To know that it was up to my mother and I to take care of my remaining 4 younger brothers would take a strength that i'm still not sure I have. As I watched other families struggle as they literally took two steps forward and slid one step back down the hill I ached with a desire to help them, but knew it would take everything in me to get my own cart up the hill.
And then the men returned to watch us in silence.
They walked side by side with us giving us support we needed while never actually touching or speaking to us. It was indescribable. I couldn't help but feel that this was what it felt like to have guardian angels - another pioneer experience.
The strength of the pioneers hearts, minds, spirits and bodies was seared into me at that moment.
This pioneer weekend I am so very grateful for my pioneer ancestors, their strength, their example, and the day off from work to celebrate just how wonderful they are!
Have a Happy, Safe, and REFLECTIVE holiday weekend!
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