Loving Salem Ropes!

Hey everyone, thought I'd let you know that I love what I'm doing here in Salem!  Here's a little look into what I do on the Salem Ropes Course. 

First of all, I'm finding that no two days are ever the same when working on the Salem Ropes Course.  Each group is unique and it keeps me on my toes as I do my best to lead them through the course in a way that will challenge them and also give them opportunities for great success.  Sometimes I wonder if I'm the one doing all the learning because I get so much out of the activities that I lead the groups through.  

Teamwork written in many different languages

One of the main reasons that groups come to the course is to work on TEAMWORK.  Most of the elements are designed specifically to require teamwork and it's fun to watch groups begin the day with an independent mindset and leave at the end of the day depending on and even enjoying working as a team.

  

The five commitments that we all make at the beginning of the day

I love seeing how so many amazing things can be learned from these fairly simple and fun activities.  

I can't begin to list all the lessons that are learned through the activities, but I will share a couple to give a general idea.

Flying Squirrel

The Flying Squirrel:  a high element where the "flyer" is pulled up about 30 feet into the air by the rest of the team.  This element allows individuals the opportunity to trust their team with their life as they fly into the air and also for the team to serve the "flyer."  It's really cool to see how much fun people have in pulling on the rope.  Service doesn't have to be an agonizing thing... in fact there can be great joy in serving others as you are joining with them in reaching a goal! 

Giant Swing

The  Giant Swing:  a high element where you climb a pole 25 feet up to a platform and then swing out over the hill to a height of about 60 feet.  Definitely a breathtaking experience!  This element is great for bringing out the encouragement of the group and also for overcoming fear.  There are very few people who don't fear this swing... even I still have a moment of fear up there!  The Giant Swing has been an amazing thing to experience as a facilitator.  To witness the life giving power of encouragement is so cool and seeing people overcome their fears is truly wonderful!   

"For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love, and of a sound mind."  - II Timothy 1:7