Island Park is a Great Classroom

I have always enjoyed being outdoors. Father’s Day caused me to reminisce about the knowledge and values my family imparted to me. I remember my great-grandfather taking me on a walk along a stream bank in Logan as he selected a willow for a whistle. My grandfather introduced me to Island Park while returning from Yellowstone when I was seven. He also taught me how to fence and irrigate on his farm in Lehi, Utah during my teenage summers.

The point is that my introduction to the outdoors and outdoor skills were conveyed to me beginning at an early age by those who loved me. It was those small, seemingly insignificant efforts that shaped my life.

For those visiting Island Park, the environment allows parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents the opportunity to instill skills and values that will shape their family. The youth unplug and appreciate the majesty of a moose grazing in the river or the serenity of a float trip down a section of the Henry’s Fork. Each experience introduces them to the real world instead of the virtual world. Conversations can be kindled that allow the elder to reinforce the values essential to a successful life.

The twenty-four hour news cycles emphasizes the horror, difficulty and tension around the world. A love of nature and outdoor skills will give one’s family a way to withdraw and recharge as they tackle the difficulties of life. Don’t miss those opportunities to create a teaching memory. Mine those moments as you would mine for gold because what the family learns will be more precious than any metal.

God has given this great backdrop for sharing one’s love for another.

Use it wisely.