I enjoy running, but not when I have the runs. Such experiences have only one redeeming feature: You get a good story. I, for one, love sharing funny stories. I also love stories which feature me as the main character. So, without any further ado (but some doo-doo), let's begin on a hot, humid summer day in Virginia. It was the 100 year anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. Young men, dressed in the latest scouting fashion, flowed from all parts of the United States to celebrate the spirit of that organization. The 2010 National Scout Jamboree was an experience of a lifetime, and I was one of those uniformed youth in attendance. Located at Fort A.P. Hill , the Jamboree was situated to host a large number of scouts, and there were rumors of more than 50,000 people in attendance. With such a large force gathered together, and with everyone camping, it was no wonder some of us grew ill. Whether it was an illness passed to me, or early signs of lactose intolerance, I discov...
"I think it’s impossible to really understand somebody, what they want, what they believe, and not love them the way they love themselves." - Orson Scott Card, Ender's Game When I was a teenager, my dad called me a political fanatic. I remember debating that claim until my face flushed and stars filled my vision. I sputtered about our government infringing on our rights and blathered about internet conspiracy. I argued passionately for the need of the government to be transparent to reveal the corruption hidden there. I felt like the world and its evils were against me, and I was ready to fight for what I knew was right. I've since calmed down some. I still have passion, but an LDS mission and these years of reflection and study have helped me learn a few lessons, change some ignorant views, and gain a new perspective on life and other people. This journey was personal, but what I learned along my way out of this type of fanaticism could help others escape overze...