Collecting Experiences: Homes, Temples, and the Roads in Between

There's something powerful about a room filled with memories. A tangible record of a life lived, a family grown, and a faith deepened through shared experiences. That's the vision one of the *This Is Kingdom* crew shared in their recent podcast episode, and it sparked a thought: what if every mile we travel, every new place we see, adds another layer to the story we’re building together?

We've all been there – the feeling of standing on hallowed ground, the weight of history pressing in, the quiet certainty that you're connecting with something bigger than yourself. For some, it's the majesty of a national park, the solitude of a backcountry trail, or the rush of conquering a new climbing route. For others, it's the simple joy of sharing a loaf of Proof Breads sourdough with a new friend at a local bakery, or leaving a CrockyGo rock as a small token of hope for a stranger. And for others still, it’s the shared experience of a foosball table skunking in Costa Rica – a reminder that humility and unexpected encounters can be just as profound as any landmark.

The conversation in the episode, centered around Elder Quentin L. Cook's talk on Keys, Covenants, and Easter, beautifully highlights the idea that temples – and by extension, any place we approach with reverence and intention – are sources of divine power and blessings. Hollis's reflections on Jerusalem, and the story of Neil Armstrong finding those steps more sacred than the moon itself, resonated deeply. It's a reminder that faith isn't confined to brick and mortar; it's woven into the fabric of our experiences, our relationships, and the landscapes we traverse.

Think about it: a family homeschooling on the road, tracing the footsteps of history across the American Southwest, collecting memories along the way. A group of climbers meeting up at the Grand Tetons, not just for the challenge of the rock, but for the fellowship of shared purpose. A homeschooling co-op organizing a field trip to a wheat mill, learning about food systems and connecting with the land. These are the moments that define Rogue Adventurers – the moments when travel becomes more than just sightseeing; it becomes a pilgrimage, a learning experience, a deepening of faith.

And that room filled with memories? It's not just about collecting souvenirs. It’s about curating a legacy, a testament to a life lived in pursuit of something greater. It’s about passing down stories, values, and a love for adventure to the next generation. It's about decorating Currency Kids bills – those Benny, Abe, Tommy, and Andy notes – and sending them out into the world, little pockets of gospel truth traveling alongside our daily transactions. It’s about placing CrockyGo rocks along the trail, small reminders of hope and connection for those who might need it most.

Whether you're a seasoned RV family, a first-time homeschooler planning a weekend getaway, or a thru-hiker seeking solace in the wilderness, the spirit of adventure calls us to explore, to connect, and to grow. It's a spirit of preparation and anticipation – knowing that something wonderful is always just over the horizon, waiting to be discovered.

Ready to join the journey? Find your next Rogue Adventurers meet-up. List a field trip. Claim your creator profile. Let’s build those rooms full of experiences together.