Death Valley continued. What a story of contrasts. Six volunteers who seem to have their lives together and 16 men men who are struggling to make something rise from the ashes - men who really had been walking in the valley of the shadow of death - men, many of whom would say that they would now be dead if it were not for CityTeam. Some of the men had committed other crimes as well - assault, burglary, robbery. Some had spent some time in jail and some in prison. Many had tattoos indicative of past affiliations with gangs. Yet, there behaviour was at least as civil as that i experienced in the Navy years ago, and the language was purer than I have heard in many workplaces. Many were deeply committed to letting God have control of their lives - having hit bottom on their own and now hoping for a light for the future. Many had not yet gotten to the point of beginning to dream again. Some just hoped to have an association with children now lost to them. Most had left behind a string of broken relationships. Yet, all were just men who could enjoy a good physical and mental challenge. The climb over rocks, gravel, along ledges, up canyons to Slit Rock canyon required co-operation, endurance, and courage that challenged some of the participants - not the least of which was Mike, our leader, whose back pain nearly crippled him on the way up. When we arrived at slit rock and set the cams and ropes for rappelling down the dry waterfall, the challenge level rose. Not all were willing to try the descent; and actually starting down was intimidating to some. But all who tried made the descent; and a still greater sense of camaraderie developed.

After the hike back down with another rope-assisted descent, we camped where a swimming pool and shower were available. (It felt soooo good to be dry and clean that I skipped the pool.)
Tri-tip steak around the campfire closed the day; and sleep was delightful.

The trip back was even more telling of stories and dreams - now from men who trusted each other. Lunch at McDonald's was punctuated with the distribution of "Desert Rat" awards, with each man recognized for something significant about them.

I did not hear a single harsh word on the trip; and the close in group prayer and hugs all around was sincere. I cannot help but think "If only these men had had this kind of experience in their families as they grew up - how many would be in this program now???" Most knew abuse, neglect, had no loving father - if they had one at all.

Please, God, keep my heart tender and thankful and serving.