This short story is truly encouraging and would be excellent for any newsletter or publication for that matter that is looking to reach the youth. However, I am a 28 year old woman and this story really spoke to my heart. As I read of the youth group's rock climbing adventure and their fearless leader, Kiki, I identified with the struggle and triumphs. Likened to ones faith journey through life, there are times that are easier, like the beginning of the climb and those times which are more difficult and nearing the end. But at the most challenging points in the climb, as was the case in this story, encouragement comes. God speaks through those around us, helping us to keep going. We cannot always see what lies beyond our present circumstances. But God knows and we can have faith that at the end of the struggle is an even more beautiful view.

At the end of this short story there is a simple, yet profound teaching narrative on prayer. As the unidentified climber found herself at the top of the mountain, she says that once at the top, she did something that she would normally not do. She prayed. "Usually I only prayed when I needed something...But something came out of my mouth, naturally-a prayer of thanks."

Rock climbing is a popular activity among a variety of ages. By including this story in your newsletter or even as a part of a Bible study on prayer and endurance in life. It moved me to a place of further reflection on where, when and what I generally pray for. All in all, it is a narrative of encouragement to keep on striving to live life faithfully and gratefully.