Juan portrait
  • Expedition: Apr 29 - May 4, 2012
  • Juan
  • Generation Green - Central California Consortium
  • Yosemite National Park: Hetchy Hetchy

What I learned about the wilderness is that it is something wonderful waiting to be discovered. We could’ve gone back today, but we wouldn’t have accomplished our goal It is very fascinating feeling success as well. I honestly can say, that I’ve gotten closer with everyone just today. I felt that I not only experienced something, but I found my love for nature. It is untouched perfection. Natural settings surround us. I really wish, it could never be moved, because we will be killing the spirit of it’s history. The animals here have the best home, and it is not ours to take. It is great to come here, and find the importance of nature, but only coming here you will find it.

Juan with Dam

Nature shouldn’t be disturbed by humans, because it is here for a reason. Over the years, we as humans have destroyed the environment, but it is time to just enjoy the beauty of it. What I learned today, was to listen to everything in Nature. I bonded with nature today. It felt good to walk alone, looking at the view along the trail. This experience, was undescribable because only being in my position you will feel it. I wish more teenagers could have this experience, because it is important to bond with Mother Nature.

Juan Writing

My experience here was Life changing. I got closer to many of the people here, who were strangers at first. It was my first backpacking trip, and I was scared to be out there in the middle of nowhere. At first, I got tired of walking and I was annoyed by it. My first day at Rancheria Falls was amazing. The best part was sleeping outside, and listening to the waterfall and looking at the stars. When we hiked to LeConte Point, I knew it was very long, we had to make our own path, and go through different obstacles. However, when we reached our goal to climb the mountain, the feeling was undescribable. It is just like life, sometimes you have to make your own little path, and overcome obstacles just to reach success. Once I reached LeConte Point, I knew I could reach any goal. That was not the only thing I learned though. I learned to just enjoy everything in life. I enjoyed seeing the little things like flowers and insects, as well as the giant Sequoias and Mountains. I really hope this program continues to change lives like it changed mine.

Juan and Bug
Juana Juan Campfire
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