LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 11 Top: Maddie and friends gather around the warmth of the campfire. Middle: Connection with nature and other people were key components of Maddie's WOODS experience. Bottom: The cabin where Maddie's orientation took place. All photo credit: Carolyn Walton the sky darkened as we sat by the crackling fire and ate dinner (which was warm broccoli and mac and cheese), I was cold. Laying in my tent under two sleeping bags wasn't any warmer, and sleep didn't come easily. As I was literally shaking, I thought, "This was a mis- take. I'm not meant for this. I just want to go home and get warm." And that thought played over and over in my head until I finally fell asleep. The next day was a little better because we moved from the tents to a cabin with a woodstove. As we ate breakfast, I sat by the fire. And for the first time since I got there, I wasn't cold. My hands regained their normal color, and while the rest of the group went to grab their tents and packs, I got to be alone thanks to Carolyn no- ticing my introversion. During that time, I reflected in the journal they supplied us with. In that blanket of warmth and com- fortability, I realized that maybe I was wrong. Sure, I still had three days to go, and anything could happen. But my disability wasn't (and still isn't) my weakness. It was my strength. As the days went on, that was the thought that stayed in my head. And every day that thought got stronger and stronger as our sleeping areas became more and more comfortable. Throughout those four days, I hiked with a hiking pack, peed outside (I note that as one of my biggest accomplishments), cooked food over a fire, slept in a tent, got through four days without shower- ing ( yes, I know. Ew), and connected with not only the people I was with and the nature I was around, but my- self. Today, we live in a loud world. That's even more true for teens. We're constantly moving, talking, and doing. But when I was out there, I was able to realize things I could've never known about with all the noise in our world. I realized that even as a disabled teen living in a small town where I feel different from the rest, my differenc- es are what make me the strong and great person I am. Even though I go to a school that's full of extroverts as an introvert, it's okay for me to sit alone and read, no matter what people think. Even though I'm the only teen writer in my community, I can still connect with other writers online. And even though I'm disabled, I am not weak. This experience changed me for the better. Yes, it started off as the worst (cold) experience of my life, but I persevered, and realized that it was worth it. No matter who you are, disabled or not, a teen or a full grown adult, if you're ever doubting your strength, just think back on all the tough things you got through to get to where you are now. And if you're considering go- ing camping this winter, maybe that'll help too. I know it definitely worked for me. t

• Cover