GIFFORD PINCHOT NATIONAL FOREST, WA:

This waypoint excursion began the day before my hike, as I journeyed to Southwest Washington, where I found a comforting place to rest for the night, positioning myself only a couple of hours from the trailhead of the Lewis River Falls. With a little time on my hands, I ventured into the tasting room of a local winery. I learned a little bit about the Matranga Vineyards family business from Brian and Hope, enjoying my time with them and their dogs Luigi & Bridget. As the sun began to cast its rays over this 12.6-mile out-and-back hike, with its 1,555 feet of elevation gain, the morning felt perfect, embracing me with clear skies and crisp air. With an early check-out, I drove into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest before sunrise, carrying a deep sense of gratitude for my children, who have walked alongside me through love, loss, grief, and renewal this past year. As daylight breaks, I reflected on my thoughts for the day—lessons drawn from the wisdom of Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Stoic teachings, seeking to find solace and understanding in their timeless insights.

The Journey…

My hike began at the Crab Creek Trailhead, on one of those days when nature felt like an old friend, embracing me with open arms. Lacing up my hiking boots, I could almost hear the gentle whispers of the trees in the soft breeze, encouraging me to step into their world. The trail unfolded before me like a comforting story, each turn revealing a new chapter filled with rocks, dirt, and the occasional gnarled root, reminding me that even the most reliable paths can sometimes be a little tangled. The first mile, though a bit overgrown, passed swiftly, each step harmonizing with the soothing rhythm of the river. The lower Falls greeted me with warmth, like that feeling you get wrapping your hands around a warm cup of coffee on a crisp morning. The river cascaded over the rocks without regard to the early morning, alive and full of energy. I paused there, cherishing a moment to breathe in the beauty around me. It was a lovely introduction to what lay ahead, and a gentle reminder that often, the greatest treasures come from the simplest moments.

As I continued my ascent toward the middle falls, I could feel my legs warming up, the elevation gain added some effort to the journey—worth every step! The middle falls offered a peaceful escape with the soothing sound of the cascading water over the smooth rock surface. I found a spot to soak it in on a nearby log, allowing the calming symphony to envelop me, a perfect pause in this unfolding story. Then came time to turn the page for the third chapter—the upper falls. The climb was a bit tougher, reminding me that the most breathtaking views often require a little struggle. Standing there, taking in the majestic falls, I recognized that life mirrors this hike: the steeper climbs can be tiring, yet they lead to moments of pure beauty that make every effort worthwhile.

With a heart full of gratitude, I turned back, gently retracing my steps down the trail. The sun was now higher, casting a warm, golden hue over everything, transforming the familiar landscape into an entirely new scene. The details of the falls sparkled with the sun’s rays highlighting even the smallest rapid. I encountered a few friendly hikers on my descent, their smiles mirrored my own, and it felt like we were all connected to this shared experience. I unlaced my boots back at the car and couldn’t help but reflect on the day, with a comforting wave of memories washing over me. The drive home stretched ahead, but it was a welcome solitude, a precious time to digest the sheer beauty I had experienced. Each mile served as a gentle reminder that life, much like hiking, is about the journey, the climbs, and those fleeting moments that take our breath away. Today, I gathered many of those cherished moments to hold close to my heart.

Gratitude…

I’m reminded that every journey is shaped not just by the path we walk, but by those who walk beside us. At this waypoint, my heart is filled with gratitude for our children, who have been steadfast companions on the rugged terrain of this past year. Just as a hiker relies on a sturdy trekking poles to navigate the steep inclines, I’ve experienced their unwavering support as we traverse the steep slopes of grief. The passing of Kelly didn’t just cast shadows on my world; it enveloped theirs as well. I was reminded of this during a poignant moment in the Apple TV series “Shrinking”—when the daughter, in the aftermath of her mother passing, expressed her emotions to her father, telling him, “it didn’t just happen to you!” Loss is a shared experience, a winding trail that we all must traverse together. In that moment, I was humbled and felt a rush of awareness; loss has touched every corner of our family.

Each of us has packed away our own stones, and yet, we’ve also found ways to lighten each other’s packs. This past year has been a quest for understanding, a search for meaning and purpose, in a landscape that sometimes felt too treacherous to navigate. But through all the twists, turns, peaks, and valleys, our children have been my guiding birds. Each, sharing with me a key ingredient, unique to each of their individual super powers. They’ve shown incredible resilience, offering love and encouragement as I’ve sought to find my footing without their mother, and in their grace, they’ve allowed me to stumble. As we walk this path, I find peace in knowing that we can grow together, supporting one another like the sturdy trees that line our trails, their roots intertwined beneath the surface. So today, I pause to express my gratitude—thankful for our children, for their courage, and for the love that continues to blossom even in the shadow of loss.

Reflections…

As I began to wander through the winding trail, flanked by majestic trees and the soft rustle of branches in the distance, my mind drifted into thoughts about personal growth and my quest for understanding the path of enlightenment. Each step felt like a journey deeper into something meaningful, much like the trail beneath my feet. With anticipation of the three falls ahead, I carried a “trail thought” about three guiding relics that have become essential in my journey: Benjamin Franklin’s 13 Virtues, Thomas Jefferson’s “10 Rules for Daily Life,” and the timeless teachings of Stoic Philosophy. These concepts, rooted in history, resonate with the principles found in many modern-day self-help books. Yet, unlike contemporary literature, they cut through the extraneous narrative to offer clarity in their messages.

Reflecting on the wisdom of these historical artifacts, I am filled with a deep sense of purpose and direction, eager to uncover any insights they may hold for me. As I wander through my familiar paths in life, where laughter once resonated alongside me and Kelly, the weight of her absence feels heavy in my heart. It has been nearly a year since she left us, and while many days present a daunting uphill battle, I find a trace of solace in the wisdom of those who walked before me—way before. These guiding principles serve as cherished markers on my journey, helping me navigate the complex landscape of life, distinguishing between fleeting happiness and lasting joy.

Setting out on the Lewis River Falls Trail, the air was crisp and filled with the earthy scent of dewy moss and Douglas-fir; the path made of dirt and dense tree thatch, creating a soft landing for my steps. A little over a mile in, I caught my first glimpse of the Lower Falls, cascading down the rocky ledge, a breathtaking display of nature’s raw beauty. Standing there, I felt a surge of inspiration wash over me. I paused and let my mind drift to Franklin’s 13 virtues. With the first leg of my journey, I couldn’t help but start with these guiding principles. While I might not be able to recall all 13 from memory, they’ve become familiar signposts along my way. Franklin, in his twenties, was busy shaping these virtues back in 1726, emphasizing reason, self-control, and moral character as keys to success and contribution to society. Each virtue stands like a landmark on my map, reminding me of the qualities I aspire to embody as I navigate life’s ups and downs.

Gazing at the cascading waters of the Lower Falls, I’m reminded of the virtue of temperance, which urges moderation in all things. Just as the river flows steadily, carving its path through the landscape, I reflect on how balance in my own life can lead to a smoother journey. Franklin’s wisdom is a gentle whisper, encouraging me to be mindful of my choices, steering me away from excess and toward a life of purpose. I take a moment to breathe in the serenity around me, allowing the sound of the rushing water to drown out any distractions. It’s as if Franklin is encouraging my every step toward becoming a better version of myself. His teachings resonate like a trusty compass, helping me navigate the obstacles and distractions that life throws my way, in a healthy way. As I continue on the trail, I carry Franklin’s virtues with me, infusing them into my thoughts and actions. With every step forward, I feel more connected to the wisdom of the past, ready to tackle whatever lies ahead.

Benjamin Franklin developed the 13 virtues as part of his quest for personal improvement. While the language might seem a bit dated, Franklin’s virtues serve as timeless moral guidelines:

1. Temperance – Moderation in all things.
2. Silence – Speak only when it improves upon silence.
3. Order – Keep your life organized.
4. Resolution – Follow through on your commitments.
5. Frugality – Spend wisely and generously.
6. Industry – Use your time productively.
7. Sincerity – Be honest and genuine.
8. Justice – Treat others fairly.
9. Moderation – Avoid extremes.
10. Cleanliness – Maintain yourself and keep a tidy space.
11. Tranquility – Maintain peace and calm amidst chaos.
12. Chastity – Approach relationships respectfully.
13. Humility – Foster self-awareness and empathy.

I made my way along the River and the air grew brisker with each step, the sounds of nature enveloped me like noise-canceling headphones. After a gradual ascent followed by a matched descent, I found myself approaching the Middle Falls, a spectacular sight that tumbles with grace and beauty over a sheet of rock. It’s here, standing before this majestic sight, that I chose to reflect on Thomas Jefferson’s “10 Rules for Daily Life,” which felt like a breath of fresh air amidst the invigorating mountain breeze. With the clear thin layer of water that cascaded across the rocks, I felt Jefferson’s wisdom resonate within me, reminding me to use my time wisely and embrace the pursuit of knowledge. But in this moment, “wisely” meant not thinking I could stand in two inches of rushing water atop a slippery sheet of rock; check, one good decision made today. Each rule acts as a stepping stone toward living intentionally, guiding me toward a more fulfilling life. Pausing for a moment and taking in the quiet thunder of the falls, I couldn’t help but think of the rule (#11) that emphasizes the privilege of waking up each morning—something that hits home more than ever.

Here, at the Middle Falls, I am reminded of the sheer wonder of being alive. The water cascades down with relentless energy, a perfect metaphor for the vitality that exists in each new day. The essence of Jefferson’s words echoed in my mind: every sunrise is a reminder that we have another opportunity to embrace life, to learn, to grow, and to savor the little moments that often pass us by unnoticed. As the gentle mist from the falls fills the air, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The beauty around me served as a vivid illustration of Jefferson’s call to savor life’s experiences. I took a moment to breathe deeply, allowing brisk air to fill my lungs, and I committed to making the most of my time here, both on this trail and in my everyday life. The Middle Falls was a reminder that, just as water found its way through the rocks, I too could navigate my journey with purpose and clarity. I carried Jefferson’s rules with me as I continued on my hike, letting them inspire my steps and shape my thoughts.

The essence of Thomas Jefferson’s “10 Rules for Daily Life” are often summarized as a set of principles that reflect his thoughts and beliefs on how to live a fulfilling and virtuous life:

1. Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.
2. Never trouble another for what you can do yourself.
3. Keep your friendships in good repair.
4. Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.
5. Do not bite at the bait of pleasure, till you know there is no hook beneath it.
6. When angry, count ten before you speak; if very angry, a hundred.
7. Never be afraid to make a mistake.
8. Be polite to all, but intimate with few.
9. Steer clear of loud and aggressive individuals; they burden the soul.
10. Think for yourself and let others enjoy the privilege of doing so too.

However, there are more than ten, as this list is not inked by him, and it’s disputed what the ‘Top 10″ are. So I’m adding one of my favorites to the list, “When you rise in the morning, think of the privilege of being alive.” It’s the cornerstone of gratitude.

Finally approaching the Upper Lewis River Falls, the journey felt like a fulfilling culmination of my hike. The path has twisted and turned, leading me through a series of steep ascents and descents, each step drawing me closer to another breathtaking sight. The sound of multiple cascades greeted me in a symphony of rushing water that echoed the themes of Stoic Philosophy I had been pondering throughout my trek. In Stoicism, I find concepts that resonate in many modern-day writings—ideas like emotional intelligence, the serenity prayer, and living in the present, to name a few. The Stoics teach resilience and emphasize the importance of accepting what we cannot control—lessons that feel especially relevant as I navigate life’s unpredictable terrain. Standing before the Upper Falls, I reflected on the challenges I’ve faced along the trails I’ve hiked. Each steep hill, every river crossing, and even the occasional fallen tree have tested my resolve. Yet, in these moments of difficulty, I reminded myself to ground in the present and focus on how I’ll respond.

Watching the water tumble over the rocks, I was struck by the beauty of acceptance—the falls don’t fight against gravity; they embrace it, transforming obstacles into their path’s essence. It’s the water’s resolve facing challenges and imperfections that makes it more beautiful. This lesson has become an anchor in the emotional storm I’ve been navigating, reminding me that it’s okay to feel the weight of my experiences while still moving forward. It’s a powerful reminder that even in life’s turbulent moments, I have the ability to choose my response and find peace within. With the Upper Falls as my backdrop, I felt empowered to embrace the uncertainties of life, building confidence that I can weather any storm. This philosophy has become a steadfast companion, helping me navigate not just the trails I hike, but the journey of life itself. I’ve learned that happiness can be fleeting, tied to the world around me like the sun shining brightly on a clear day. In contrast, joy is deeper, rooted in acceptance and gratitude. Stoicism encourages me to embrace these moments of joy, to find meaning in the small things, and to understand that it’s okay to feel both sadness and joy simultaneously.

As I made my way back to the trailhead, with a great view of yet another falls, Copper Creek, I took a moment to pause and reflect. The three teachings—Franklin’s virtues, Jefferson’s rules, and Stoic wisdom—are more than just historical musings; they are the guiding principles that clear my path through life’s complexities. Just as this trail revealed stunning views with its hidden gems, these philosophies illuminate my journey toward a more fulfilling existence. Today, my heart feels lighter as I recognize that while my journey may be long and filled with challenges, every step I take in the name of love, virtue, and resilience, is a step worth celebrating.

I’m grateful to be able to learn from these teachings, nurturing the roots of strength and joy within me. In this blend of loss and love, I discover the true essence of living—a journey that honors the past while embracing what lies ahead. With every hike, I’m reminded that the journey is just as important as the destination, and I continue to explore these timeless principles. Putting them to the test, using them to help guide my decisions, I feel a blend of excitement and trepidation for the discoveries yet to come, and I look forward to where it will lead me next. The path continues.

-Ken

• Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA
• 46° 37′ 36.57576″ -123° 41′ 53.2716″
• 12.62 miles | 1,555 elevation gain | ~5.5 hours
• 45-62 degrees and clear