Here is a little Sunday thought for you.
It comes in the form of a story of a occurrence that happened last night.
We have been planning a hike to the hot springs for about a week now. Up until yesterday we were going to leave here around four. Yesterday we decided to leave around 6:30p.m. Only one person had experienced this hike before so we didn't really know what we were getting ourselves into. We got onto the trail around 7:00p.m. After about 20 or 25 minutes we made it to the half way point. It was kind of strange that we were only half way there I thought. But we all kept going. Another 20 minutes had passed and we started to hear crickets. A sure sign of darkness. But we continues on. 5 or 10 minutes later we finally made it to our destination. We wanted to get out and play around in the water but we were all (especially Ash and I) a little apprehensive about the darkness. We thought we would have some time. So we explored and enjoyed for about 15 minutes. Then I started to get nervous. The darkness was setting in fast. We said we should leave so everyone began to get ready. Slowly. Slowly but surely I guess. Ash and I were very anxious by this point and began the trek home. Within 10 minutes darkness had fallen upon us. With only one flashlight to the 7 people that surrounded it we were far from prepared. I lead the way out. There were points under the trees that were completely pitch dark. The trail curved along a short but steep ledge. It was also a rocky path full of ups and downs. How we made it off that trail safe and sound 40 minutes later is nothing but a miracle to me. I was sending up many prayers during our stupid excursion. And I know that we were blessed.
I never want to hike in the dark again. But I know there is safety and protection through Heavenly Hands when we come upon unplanned and unsafe situations. I am thankful for that knowledge and truth.
