One of the best things about going to college in Northwest Arkansas was the many opportunities for outdoor fun (which often took me outside of my comfort zone). Because we were college kids without a lot of money to spend, we had to be creative. We explored caves with flashlights trying not to walk into any of the bats that hung inside the walls, went rope swinging out over the river that ran through town (sometimes falling into the freezing waters in February), and even climbed an old abandoned water tower when we needed a break from studying.
Among the beautiful state parks within a few minutes driving distance was Devil’s Den. It offered great hiking trails, beautiful mountain views and plenty of caverns to explore. Several of us would take a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon hiking. We would hike up to the very top of one of the mountains where a lone tree stood on a rocky ledge. We all signed our names to a piece of paper and buried it, along with a penny at the foot of the tree. It became our tradition. Each time a group of us climbed the mountain; we would dig up the penny and go through the whole process again.
One Saturday in early October, Dan invited me to go to Devil’s Den. Just the two of us barbecued hamburgers over an open fire and then decided to go on a hike. The only odd thing about the walk was that when we reached the foot of the mountain, Dan suddenly burst out into song (although it was not too unusual for him to do something out of the ordinary like that, so I really didn’t think too much about it). We reached the tree and sat down to enjoy the spectacular view of autumn colors. After awhile Dan said, “Are you ready to dig up the penny?” I began digging at the base of the tree. As I opened up the piece of paper, I began reading a letter in which Dan had written, “You have found the treasure and so have I. Will you marry me?” Instead of the penny wrapped in a piece of steno pad paper, I unwrapped an engagement ting.
Later I discovered the reason for his loud singing was because one of his buddies was waiting at the top of the mountain to bury the ring right before we got there (for safety’s sake). It was definitely an offer I couldn’t refuse and almost 45 years later, I’m so glad I accepted!
(P.S. Yes – Dan really did have hair back then!)
One of the ways to live an inspired life is to step outside of your comfort zone. Maybe it’s not navigating bats in a cave, hiking up a mountain or climbing abandoned water towers, but don’t your fears hold you back. What is something new that you’ve always wanted to try?
Get inspired and Go for it!
