Grand Canyon Reflections

A B2B resident sets up his tent.

As a writer for Back2Basics, I get a pretty illuminating view of the wonderful ways B2B is changing lives. Right now, for example, I’m busily putting together the spring newsletter. In honor of Mother’s Day, I’ve been talking to some B2B moms about their stories — how they became concerned about their sons, what they did about it, and how Back2Basics has fit into their solution. My heart goes out to these women, for all the fear and worry they had to endure before finding a safe, healthy place for their boys. I was talking to one of the moms last week about her son, and I mentioned what a great, infectious laugh he has. She looked down at her lunch plate, suddenly sad: “I haven’t heard him laugh in a long time,” she said quietly.

Taking in the view.

In order to get familiar with the B2B program, I’ve been joining in on some of the activities. Of course, getting to go to Mexico last month was a phenomenal experience; it was heartwarming to watch these guys navigate an entirely different culture (not to mention the ocean), wide-eyed and sober. This week, I tagged along with outdoor staffers Robb and Chase as they led the residents on a hiking and camping trip at the Grand Canyon.

Chase tries to cool off in a trickle.

Hiking in the Canyon is always a challenge. It’s steep if you’re hiking down from the rim; the impact does a number on your legs and feet. And it’s just as steep hiking back out, especially if it’s warm. Add to that the occasional exposed stretch of trail where a fall could be painful or even dangerous, and you’re in for a sustained effort — mentally and physically.

Rest stop, three miles in.

Partly thanks to Robb and Chase I’m sure, the Back2Basics residents perform pretty impressively at all of these challenges. The guys are strong hikers. They know how to take care of themselves on the trail by eating, drinking water and maintaining a steady pace. And unlike me, they’re even able to avoid closing their eyes at the end of the day during the ranger talk (oops). The best part, for me, is getting to watch the guys become more confident, opening up to themselves, each other and the world around them. Oh, and that guy with the infectious laugh? I got to hear it some more up there. And I thought of his mom, knowing she’ll get to hear it again soon.