How We Grow
In a society that values materialism above all else as a sign of status, it is easy to forget where our efforts should be focused. Not unlike social media influencers who post about their newest car, fancy vacation, and influencer “friend group”, too many of us have been led to believe that the newest gear, special class, and mutuals are all we need to get a leg up within our community.
Gear, classes, and online contacts only go so far. Real relationships are the bedrock of organization and preparation.
Buy the gear that you can afford and train with it. Budget accordingly so that you can own quality gear, but do not feel pressured into buying for the sake of buying.
Attend classes that will benefit your situation. Prioritize classes that will fit your needs as you will learn skills that most of the population around you does not possess.
Finally, and in regard to building a community, go to classes and events with the goal of meeting like-minded people. Best case is that you will meet others who live within your state. Worst case is that you finally connect face-to-face with individuals who you may have communicated with for months, if not years, through social media.
My main goal in this message is to point out that each and every one of us needs to do everything we can to truly build community. Not through the screen of a phone, but through firm handshakes.
To prove that I am willing to practice what I preach, I will be attending @appalachian_range_day in 2026. I will be budgeting my expenses over the year so that I can bring the appropriate gear and make the drive across multiple states to get there. I will be planning my work and family calendar so that I can ensure that I have the time to be in attendance. And most importantly, I will be putting my face and name into our community so that genuine relationships can be formed.
I look forward to meeting those of you who I have got to know through this page, and I am excited to experience an event that highlights what our community stands for. #FindYourHill
