Reflection of Pecos spike trip

Over the last month and a half the field crews (Crews #1 and #2) have been on Spike at a location in Pecos, New Mexico to help the forest service create a trail through an old Civil War battle site. The trail was over two and a half miles in length and was just a dirt trail. We laid down a three inch layer of base dirt and another four inches of gravel on top through the entire trail, created lookout points and did some rock work as well. After work, we camped in tree houses at a camp outside of Santa Fe. We made dinner, washed dishes and cleaned daily. We were all homesick by the end of each week and we were all usually in a foul mood but we all got through it. Another obstacle was sickness. We all got sick over the two week break we had for S-212 training and had to deal with it on the trip. What I personally liked about the trip was I got to really open up to fellow crew members and they started to respect me a lot more after they got the opportunity to know me better. I also enjoyed working with some of the forest service workers. They kept us entertained, shared stories with us about themselves and we all got along very well. some skills that I learned over that trip was that I can open up to other crew members and that we can teach each other certain skills that we all have. I have a lot to learn and they have a lot to teach me and I, them. As for the future, I hope to get closer to my crew and help them cut some trees.

Our First week with the RMYC!

Throughout this blog you will be given an insiders' look at a group of eight people embarking on an adventure of inner growth and action within the world.

ENJOY:)

1st week- Orientation & Team Building

This first week we are orientating ourselves within a new framework. We are getting to know each other on a deeper level in order for us to build a healthy positive crew for the upcoming 6 months. A tool we have been using and will continue to use is team building. It is a process orientated tool to build cohesion. We have been using communication, games, reflection, and physical activity to build a connection between us all. We use games to spark discussion, engage ourselves mentally, and to be physical together to overcome challenges which are inherent in the specific games we play. Challenges are opportunities. They push us to engage our potential. To embrace the new we let go of fear, open our doors and say yes to change. Inner growth is inevitable when we come together as a team and say yes to the journey, to the process.

This week we took a hike to the Rio Grande River near Pilar. We enjoyed nature and her beauty while getting our blood and mind flowing. We discussed the importance of the Leave No Trace Ethics and reflected upon our own personal ethics and their importance in our group and within the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps.

We also challenged our minds and came together within a circle of trust at the Ropes Course. What stood out to me was the trust fall. We stood on a platform above our crew, turned around and fell into their protective arms. Some people were at ease, for some it was a definite challenge and opportunity for trust.

Every time we come together mentally and physically we become more bonded. Team building is about cohesion and unity. A team builds a powerful force ready to influence change in the direction of the groups intentions. There is power within us and power in numbers. If change is what we desire (and it's certainly needed in our world) we'll be better able to accomplish this through groups, communities, and organizations like the RMYC.

We look forward to sharing our insights and experiences with you!

Blessings.....