Last summer, I felt a strong urge to break away from my routine and do something adventurous. So, a close friend and I decided on a backpacking trip to Guatemala. Many people, especially the young, rave about backpacking and exploring Central America, and I just had to see what I missed out on as a young person. With just a backpack each and a rough plan of what we were going to do, we set off on our journey.
One of the highlights of our trip was the overnight hike to see the Acatenango volcano. Okay, we didn’t climb it all; for part of the way, we were in a pickup truck, which was an experience in itself. The physical challenge was tough, but the sense of accomplishment when we reached the summit was incredible. Standing at the peak, looking out over the breathtaking landscape, I felt a deep connection to nature and a sense of peace. The beauty and power of the natural world made me rethink my hectic lifestyle and appreciate the simpler things.
Another unforgettable part of my trip was the time I spent at the Chabad in Guatemala. I met people from all walks of life and at different stages of their personal journeys. Sharing meals and stories with these diverse individuals was a real sense of Am Yisrael Chai, and also so inspiring. The simplicity of life at the Chabad, where material possessions took a backseat to human connection and spiritual growth, gave me a new appreciation for the simple, meaningful aspects of life.
Coming back home, I felt a noticeable shift in my perspective. The experiences and lessons from Guatemala stay with me, inspiring me to bring more simplicity and mindfulness into my everyday life. That trip to Guatemala was another important step in my ongoing exploration into self-discovery and personal growth.
