A 10-Year-Old Giant: Crossing into Biblical Manhood

Stephen Ashton 1 Comment

At just 10 years old, this young Trailman has already demonstrated remarkable maturity by achieving the Timberline Award—the capstone of our Woodlands Trail program. Soon, he’ll stand before his family, Troop, and mentors to crossover into the next phase of his journey: the Navigator program, where he will officially begin his pursuit of biblical manhood.

As part of this milestone, one of our dedicated volunteer leaders, Tim Owen, sat down with him to reflect on his journey so far. When asked what had made the biggest impact on him during his time in the program, the boy’s response left an indelible mark.

The young Trailman paused, fidgeting slightly, his small fingers pressed against the edge of the table. Then, with quiet confidence, he said:

“I think the Worthy Life was the best part. It was also the hardest because it took a lot of time to do all the lessons. But it was my favorite because it helped me walk closer to God. We should advertise the Worthy Life to more people because it will help more people walk closer to God.”

The response was stunning. At such a young age, the boy had grasped something so deep—something that many of us spend a lifetime striving to understand.

It was a simple statement, but it captured everything Trail Life USA stands for. The Worthy Life program, which challenges boys to grow in faith, serve their communities, and learn from biblical heroes, had clearly left a lasting mark on this young man. His words are a testament to the transformative power of faith-centered mentorship and the journey Trail Life offers every boy.


More Than Just Adventures

Trail Life is about more than outdoor adventures and earning awards. It’s about equipping boys to lead lives of faith, character, and service. For Trailmen, programs like Worthy Life provide opportunities for personal growth, time spent alongside their fathers, and mentoring relationships that encourage them to rise to new challenges.

For dads, it’s a platform to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with other men while investing in their sons in ways that leave a legacy. Fathers often tell us how eye-opening it is to see their boys dig deep, think deeply, and exceed expectations.

Moments like this 10-year-old’s reflection remind us why we do what we do. This wasn’t just a boy recounting his favorite lesson—it was the start of a journey to manhood grounded in faith and purpose.

Your Invitation to the Adventure

If you’re looking for an opportunity to guide your son on a life-changing journey of character and faith, Trail Life USA is here for you. From adventures in the great outdoors to discipleship programs like Worthy Life, we’re equipping boys to impact the world for Christ.

 

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About the Author
Stephen Ashton

Stephen Ashton

Stephen Ashton is the National Director of Marketing for Trail Life USA and serves as an adjunct professor at Clarks Summit University and Anchor Christian University. Prior to his work at Trail Life, he spent 15 years working with at-risk youth in residential therapeutic wilderness programs and served as the Vice-President of the Wilderness Road Therapeutic Camping Association. An author and a speaker, he has written for journals and published a book chronicling the foundations of therapeutic camping. He frequently speaks on the topics of fatherhood, biblical masculinity, outdoor education, and wilderness therapy. Stephen lives in South Carolina with his wife and 4 sons.

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