With the project funding page on Kickstarter.com coming to a close and the time to leave home getting near, I'm eager to start this adventure. There are still a few things to work out and some important people to spend time with, but I'm making sure my time in Colorado Springs isn't wasted. My family and friends have given me plenty of support; most importantly their blessing, and I will miss them very much. I know there will be days I will feel depressed and wish for their company. I know melt-downs and fears will be encountered, but the strength has been provided to see through it and make this dream a reality.
I have found comfort and safety in the Lord during rough times before. He will allow me the ability overcome all circumstances, for each challenge and obstacle is a test to be a better person for His glory. Like I mentioned in a previous post, I find reason for this journey through the lives of Moses, Jesus Christ and Paul. With or without the support of others, God has expressed that wisdom is found while living in dedication for Him, and the opportunity He has provided to be on a journey is enough to strengthen each step.
There has always a been a special person in each of our lives that we looked up to. That could have been an elderly man who radiated wisdom and shared his experiences to cause you to be a better person, or a mother who stretched out her arms to you when they were already full only to touch your heart in a way that opened your eyes to the love that lives in this world. We see these people, public figures, legends, warriors, heroes and want to be like them. To live a life without regret and live everyday to it's fullest. To fight for our values, defend the weak, and lead the lost out of darkness. Our entire lives are meant to save, inspire and help others. But we miss our chances to rise up, we fear the day we're called to be more.
Too many people have gone through living in regret and fear. We must deny to live that way. Rise up! Stand for what you believe in! Take that chance and follow your heart!
I refuse a life incomplete of the things my heart reached out for. It's not always easy and there are those who want to keep you held back. There are days when we feel unsuccessful or beaten down. If we are blind to the outcome and fear the worst, then we reject to honor those who have touched us the most.
Along with those in the Bible who impact the path I walk on, I have also discovered a few people alive today who motivate me in certain areas. These people remind me why making a difference is so important, they show me that adversity does not mean lack of success, or that we sometimes miss the meaning right in front us and show us where to look.
One man I owe respect to is J Michael Fay. Mike Fay has spent his entire life saving the wildlife and environment from destruction. He has made many sacrifices to achieve the bigger picture, something that gave a positive impact to the world with no reward for himself. He walked 3,200 miles across one of the most dense and dangerous regions in Africa. He spent 8 months flying over the continent, photographing civilizations' impact of the land. After years of fighting for the endangered wildlife and shrinking jungles in Africa, he returned to the USA to explore the beauty of the redwood forests and seek support for their preservation. He recently spent a winter in Alaska, far from people, to get in touch with his personal attraction to nature. Read more on Mike Fay here: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/explorers/bios/michael-fay/
Sometimes I come across a song that attaches itself to my soul and speaks to more than my feelings, but defines my unspoken thoughts. Thrice is Christian band making their mark in the secular scene. Listen to their song "In Exile" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDrTkd1618Q
I came across an article about 2012 Presidential Candidate ex-New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson. Mr. Johnson is a successful business owner and entrepreneur. He is also an avid technical skier, iron man, and marathon runner. He has had his share of mistakes and failures, but always came away with a great attitude and went on to the the next challenge. He's been humble and grateful during success and continues to fight for his beliefs. Read an article on him here: http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/politics/Failure-to-Launch.html?page=all
I loved the book AND movie called "Into the Wild." I read the book when I was younger and thought it was one of the greatest stories I have ever heard. It struck me on such a deep level that I couldn't stop thinking about it and fantasizing of adventures I'd have in my future. As I learned more about the author, Jon Krakauer, I found him intriguing. He is very outspoken on what is true and real. He supports people all over the world who work to make this a better place to live. His books are based on personal experiences and his own adventures. He ridiculed the media for glorifying the summit of Mount Everest as something every idiot should do. His book "Into Thin Air" is on the Mt Everest disaster of '96, which claimed 15 lives; including members of his team. Read more on Jon here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jon_Krakauer
Jennifer Pharr Davis is a person I recently came across while researching the Appalachian Trail. She holds the fastest time for thru-hiking the AT. She has written a book based on her experiences and views of living in nature. She continues to hike when she's not giving inspirational speeches and helping kids get outdoors. I understand her love for the outdoors and passion to increase awareness for saving the nature in our backyards. Read more on Jennifer here: http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/adventurers-of-the-year/2012/jennifer-pharr-davis/
There are many others who have given me reason and motivation to complete the Triple Crown of American hiking trails. Some are my dad, Robert Liparulo, my mom, sister, and the life of my Uncle Kurt, who has been called away to be with the Lord. Their lives have shown me what it takes to see past the easy-going highway and focus on the everlasting rewards at the end of the unbeaten path.
With their love and support, with the influence of those who continue to fight for what means most to them, and the perfect life of my Savior and Lord, I am able to walk on my own path that is lined with courage, strength, rooted with my morals and values, and an unconditional love for the gift God has blessed us with, the world.
Leave me a comment on who inspires you to follow your dreams and motivates your life to reach your goals.
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