David Lightburn

Over the past few years we’ve had the opportunity to visit many of the beautiful National Parks across the United States. One of our very favorite parks is Zion National Park. Zion has many amazing hikes, but the standout though is The Narrows – a 8+ mile hike up the Virgin River. Large swaths of The Narrows hike are in moving water (sometimes as deep as my chest level) with body chilling temps in the 50-60 degree range. 

This was particularly terrifying for our kids. Cold, rushing currents. Slippery rocks. Deep water. Unable to see where your next step is. 

After much coaxing and many tears, we convinced our trio to try it. After several uneasy steps on unsure footing and a near slip, they begged to turn back. 

The water is too cold. 

What if we fall?

We told them to push through. After reaching the far bank, they again looked for a way out. 

Do we really have to keep going? 

We did and something interesting happened after another 10 minutes of clenched teeth and panicked looks. They began moving with more certainty. The water didn’t feel so cold. 

Wait, this isn’t so bad.

They began to…enjoy it. 

As we zig-zagged up the river, taking in the beauty, we had the best time. Back at the RV that night, the kids couldn’t stop talking about it. 

Best hike ever.

Can we do it again?

That was so cool. 

Hike The Narrows. It’s become a foundational core value in the Lightburn home. It’s our reminder to be bold – to be brave and step into the cold, uncomfortable waters.

That morning, our kids learned firsthand that amazing things lie on the other side of our fears. Not a week goes by now when Gin and I aren’t encouraging one of our kids (or reminding each other) to Hike The Narrows. 

What in your life is fear, uncertainty, or doubt holding you back from? Don’t dwell on those emotions, instead visualize what’s on the other side of that fear. What, if you take those first steps into the rushing waters, do you stand to gain?