On July 7, 2002 I packed my bags along with the rest of my high school youth group, loaded up in the blue van known as bluebird, and left Neon, Kentucky. Our next destination was the Smokey Mountains. Here we would begin our unforgettable backpacking adventure that would last for the next five days. Needless to say I was very excited about this part of the trip. I imagined the trip to be a challenge, but also a time to relax and really enjoy the nature that God created for us, but it was much more. Not only did I meet amazing people, I learned things about myself that I never realized before, and that through hard work, determination, God's strength, and encouragement you can accomplish anything.
             Our first hour was spent driving on the winding mountain roads looking at the valleys below. We didn't have any clue to where the entrance was and almost missed it. As soon as we arrived we grabbed our bags and walked down a little path to meet our leaders and get ready for the week ahead. We got instructions on what we had to do right away since we had to get to our campsite before dark. We all got backpacks which we had to pack the least amount of clothes in. Along with that we had to fit in the food for the week, tents, sleeping bags, and all other necessary equipment. We were also assigned a cup and spoon with a number on it. The number was very important to remember because that was the cup we would be eating our breakfast and dinner out of. After everything was packed we got instructions on how to carry the backpack so we didn't hurt ourselves. Finally we were on our way with forty pounds on our backs and hips.
             I was excited to finally get started because I was looking forward to it for weeks. The first day was only a five-mile hike, which had no mountains to climb. I was very grateful because I knew that I would need the rest for the days ahead. While hiking I had forgotten that the mountains wer...