Psalm 104: 18-20 The high mountains are for the wild goats; the cliffs are a refuge for the rock badgers. He made the moon for the seasons; the sun knows the place of its setting. Thou appoint darkness and it becomes night, in which all the beasts of the forest prowl about. New American Standard (NAS)
Getting hurt or lost is never in our hiking plans, but it happens. Hikers know that it is always best to have a buddy, tell people where you are going, and check in when you return. The sign-in forest ranger books at the beginning of the wilderness trails are a reminder to be safe not brave and stupid. If you are lost, you will be glad you did advance preparation for a night in the woods. Bring a lighter, matches and candle for light and fire, plastic covering for the ground, extra clothes including a jacket, hat and gloves for warmth. Snacks, protein bars, fruit, nuts, and lots of water are basics of safety for every trip. Falling and hurting yourself are normal concerns of hikers, because we already have probably experienced both. Keeping wild animals away is infinitely easier when there is a contained fire. When I have become lost or disoriented on my path, I always know I can stop and assess the situation, look to the sky for the sun’s guidance, and then decide if I am going to turn around or keep going. Or I can use a compass that is hooked on my backpack. As in life, preparation for pain and loss comes in the hours, days, weeks and months before you are ready to hike into the mountains of trails. Getting lost or hurt comes after a decision and with a price.
What type of preparation are you making so that you respond appropriately when you are hurt, in danger or lost?