Uncomfortable

Hiking the River to River Trail 2002

It seems that many of our quests in life are all about gaining comfort. We long for the perfect room temperature, thirst for the coolest drink of water, search for the smoothest transportation, pursue our favorite relaxing recliner, and end the day by lying down in the most comfortable bed possible. While all worthy goals, it is often the most uncomfortable times and situations that we reflect back on that bring the best memories and provide the maximum personal growth.

Uncomfortable 2023

I was recently reminded of this when we overpurchased some gardening items on a trip with our children. The back of our Suburban was filled to the top with mulch, dog food, landscape block, groceries, and other supplies. It was then we found a large strawberry hanging pot on clearance that we couldn’t pass by. The only place to put it was on the clothes hanger right in front of Halayah’s face. The hour-long trip home was not going to be comfortable, but it would be memorable and cause growth.

Tent Living 1997

While I value comfort, it has not always been my top goal to provide it. When moving to Illinois, we slept in a tent for the first six months, lived without electricity for four years, hiked the 175-mile River to River trail with little training. 

Hiking the River to River Trail 2002

doing it all by hand 2011

We typically work in the heat of the day, utilize hand tools when possible, build our own buildings, grow our own food, and cut our own wood for heat. 

Driving for Water 1997

Yet, with each of the activities or situations, stories can be told of the hardships, successes and failures that have been derived from the often-uncomfortable circumstances; with personal growth, wonderful memories, and exceptional stories overshadowing the discomfort.

Removing a Wall 2015

We frequently sit around the table reminiscing about life with the difficult and uncomfortable times pervading the majority of the conversation. We reflect on how those times made us feel and we almost always laugh, even about the tough times. 

Clearing the Yard 1997

After the fact, those uncomfortable times always bring back the best memories. We still often find ourselves “out of our comfort zones,” but we would not have it any other way!

Mulching Leaves 2022

~Mark