I will never forget how aged 15, I went up a mountain top to camp. Never had I done anything like this before and I had no idea of what the night would bring.
It was a bitterly cold November’s night, tarnish with rain and if it were not for my fellow friend campers keeping spirits high, I may have hid in a corner and cried.
I had no gloves or hats and my sleeping bag was the thinnest kind one could have and needless to say that even though I doubled up on my socks and used more socks for gloves, I was a freezing mess who hardly slept.
As the new day dawned, I had an excitement that the night before was behind me and warmth was awaiting me.
I had just encountered a new situation in my protected life and lessons learnt have stayed with me forever.
It made me reflect on being more prepared for things in general and researching situations that may be new before embarking on them. Most importantly it made me reflect on those who have to suffer like this on a daily basis, due to poverty or unfortunate circumstances, making me more grateful for my own life circumstances and now being empathetic to those who were not so privileged.
This was just one of the various memories I had during my d of e and have encouraged my two boys to do this highly rewarding and life changing award.
I truly can say it shaped my life in many ways and hope it continues to do the same for other for many years to come.