I do not desire to provide a summary of what I did at Philmont. This reflection is about how Philmont changed me and provided a breathtaking path to greater appreciation of nature, breathtaking in both its literal and figurative meanings. As Mark Twain put it, some things you have learn through experience. This was one of them.

Forging relationships was an essential part of Philmont. After spending two weeks through lightning, miles of hikes, powdered food, and trail mix with the people in my crew I’ve opened up more to them than any other new friends since 4 years ago. So many things happened during Philmont that reinforced our friendships. There was rock climbing on the last day. There was chatting about every subject imaginable, from quantum physics to anime to parties involving lemons. And there was that unforgettable evening of unadulterated Gatorade-powder induced hyperness. All of this contributed to the indelible conjuncture that was our Philmont experience.

Not surprisingly, Philmont was a life-changing event. In addition to being the most kairotic scouting experience I’ve ever had, it has even influenced my daily life. When I brush my teeth, I remember swallowing toothpaste at Philmont. When I pack for campouts and vacations, I pack considerably less than what I used to. Most importantly, I am more reluctant about taking showers than before.

At Philmont, I saw some of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen and endured some of the most irregular weather I have ever endured. No one can deny the awe and reverence instilled from both the sunrise on the tooth of time and the crazy lightning storm on Cathedral Rock. There, in front of our eyes, were scenes worthy on the walls of museums and the weather documentaries of the discovery channel…

Philmont is not a scouting experience; it is a life experience. It is different from other major events such as National Jamboree in that it instills within you a respect for nature and a respect for the people with you. As the clouds rolled by and the massive mountain shadows shifted overhead, I felt nothing less than pure veneration for the environment I was so lucky to be in.