The BackBlast:

AO:

ruck

Pax Names:

Jungle Love, Gut Check, Hooch

Number of Pax:

3

FNG Names:

Number of FNGs:

0

Intro:

From theologians Richard Supa and Steven Tyler (Aerosmith): “Life’s a journey, not a destination.” It’s less about where you’re going and more about who you’re with. Less about how many times you turn around; more about why you turn around and keep on moving.

Warm-o-Rama:

Met at Canyons parking lot in DT Woodstock for 0430 StartEx at 26 F and was delighted to be joined by two other men (as an indication that I am indeed not insane or at least have other crazy friends that can relate to my unsoundness).

The Thang:

Allow me the pleasure of briefly philosophizing, rather than boring the reader with the details of our route. We did not venture even a mile's radius away from the shovel flag, and yet we rucked 4.7 miles. We stayed true to our purpose, close to the center, where it all started. We were after some miles, some strengthening of muscles, and strengthening of the bonds of friendship as well. It wasn't about where we were going, but who we were with and why we were going there. Like this morning's ruck, sometimes in life you know you're headed for the end of the path, and other times a dead end surprises you. But if you know that you can be the man God calls you to be wherever he takes you, the trap of being defined by a job, a role, a relationship, or any other dynamic will not beset your feet. You are free to know Him and make Him known in the context He has placed you in from day to day. Though you be met with a dead end, yet you'll be a live wire, full of energy and resolute purpose to keep on moving. Now there is something to be said for planning, and for living out your sense of calling to a place, a purpose, a path… and yet, I challenge you to be open to the leading of the Spirit of God, which comes from and leads you to places you know not. In the most ultimate sense, life is both a journey AND a destination. We are given eternal life through faith in the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Eternal doesn't mean later, in heaven (destination) only. It means everlasting, WITHOUT any dead ends – never ending, always increasing, abundant, overflowing with glory in all of life's varied circumstances (journey). I'm not sure if there will be a tomorrow, let alone what fortune it may bring with it. But I know I am in the midst of a very good plan, orchestrated by a loving and brilliant Master. He is trustworthy. We're in the palm of His hand, whether we realize it, or want to be, or not. May the journey be filled with adventure, accompanied by true brothers, and full of wonder. May we reflect meaningfully on where we have been, learn to plan for the future without presumption or selfish ambition, and most importantly know exactly where we are today, why we're here, and for what purpose.

COT:

We prayed for the men of our region whose marriages are struggling; we asked the Lord to help us cultivate our relationship with Him and with our spouses, and that He might help us and our struggling brothers in our pursuit of a more healthy marriage, for the renown of His name, in and through our families.

Naked Man Moleskin:

I just met Jungle Love two weeks ago, but clearly the dude is a solid HIM. Grateful for the opportunity to get to know you more. And my bro, Gut Check, has been a most welcome companion on the ruck-roads and boot-camp-grounds of our town since the summer – I am truly blessed by your friendship. To both of you and to all of my F3 brothers – what a joy to journey alongside one another through life. Let's keep moving.