Last week I was fortunate to be able to spend a week with my family and fifteen other families on a remote island in British Columbia. When my wife initially approached me about the trip, I was interested in going but I had very little idea of what to expect. 
I had never been to the northwest or to Canada before and many of the people attending this event I had never met or knew very little. The entire trip involved me stepping outside of my comfort zones.
From the time we arrived in Seattle my little mind was blown. It’s one thing to be familiar with certain scenes through television, movies, or pictures but to actually SEE Mt. Rainier in the distance is amazing. I had always heard what a beautiful city Vancouver is but now having been there I understand why people describe it that way. As a counselor I constantly advise people to take risks and stretch themselves emotionally so it is wonderful when I am able to walk my talk and put myself around people with whom I am unfamiliar.
I have been on my share of retreats and campouts. They have all been rewarding in their own ways. Each experience has been unique. Each year my family attends at least one conference with other families with whom we can connect, share ideas, and gain validation. But from the first moment, last week was special for me. It combined the escapism of a good retreat or campout with the fellowship of a good conference. The setting provided a beautiful backdrop for what for me was a spiritual experience. Laughter, conversation, and different activities allowed everyone there to be vulnerable with one another. Many were able to share their unique talents for others to enjoy. For my family and me, it allowed us to become even closer to each other and begin some new relationships.
I talk about this a lot, so I will say it again. Take some risks. Do something that you would not normally do. Even if no one else knows about it, make a decision to step out of your comfort zone every day. Say hello to a stranger, take a vacation to somewhere you have never been, or seek advice from someone with whom you have never spoken. Do you really want to make the world a better place? Then do something different!