Learning the Ropes
Maranda’s Park Parties are in full swing for the summer! It is so awesome to experience our local communities working together to provide a great time for kids and families. I think that this is such a wonderful illustration of the power of community—how working together with others can be satisfying and enriching, and make such a positive impact.
One of the activities at some of the parties this year is the Pine Rest ropes course—children are getting harnessed, climbing, relying on the support of the person holding the ropes, putting their strength and confidence to good use as they climb. I’ve observed many children and teens, even adults, take part in ropes and climbing courses over my years of being involved in team building activities. I am consistently amazed at how people thrive and complete the task ahead of them with the support of others around them. These activities, although they seem to be focused on fun, can actually be affirming to a person’s sense of self esteem and trust in others.
Where do your thoughts and feelings lead when you think of your own sense of self esteem and your ability to trust others? Do you take some risks and open yourself up to being open with and supported by others? Research shows that when people experience depression, anxiety, and stress, an important factor in recovery is an active support system.
