Was George Carlin Right?

We’ve just returned from a great week of camping in Yellowstone National Park. I need to plow into all the work that accumulated while we were away, but before doing so, I wanted to share one quick thought.

The late comedian George Carlin once said, “Some national parks have long waiting lists for camping reservations. When you have to wait a year to sleep next to a tree, something is wrong.”

I get it! Perhaps a soft bed and a warm shower are more your style. Someone once said their idea of camping is staying in a hotel that doesn’t put mints on your pillow.

That’s ok. Every family has its own favorite activities and pursuits. The important thing is that you make time for those pursuits this summer. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy or complicated. Just make sure it’s something that allows you and your loved ones to spend quality time together, away from work and responsibilities and iPhones and e-mails.

Enjoy being together!

Before long, our boys will be grown and out of the house. Jean and I don’t want to reach the empty nest years only to discover that we wasted God-given opportunities to invest in them and bond with them.

Is it a “pain” to deal with all of the logistics and unforeseen challenges of a camping trip?

Sure, but the rewards of family togetherness, against the backdrop of God’s glorious creation, far outweigh whatever inconveniences we might face.

It’s worth the investment.

What about you? If you have kids at home, are you willing to do what it takes to create lasting memories with them before it’s too late?

Those memories don’t have to involve camping, of course. Every family has different things that interest and excite them. But do you make it a habit to set aside time just to laugh together?

To engage in a fun activity together?

To grow closer to one another?

Yes, it sometimes requires planning, intentionality, and the sacrifice of precious time in order to make that happen. But I guarantee that’s a sacrifice you won’t regret making.