Let’s talk about love! But because Valentine’s Day is overrated, let’s take a moment to celebrate the love found on a COBS expedition – self-love!
What is it about carrying a 40lb backpack or sleeping under the stars that cultivates a lifelong love for yourself? We asked some alumni and staff. Here are their answers:
As a teenager, I received a full scholarship for a leadership course with COBS. Being sponsored to learn how to be comfortable living outside helped me realize that I was a part of something bigger than me, that people I didn’t even know cared enough to open these doors for me. My self-esteem, and sense of worth shifted after that experience. Their care helped me care about me.
– 1987 Alum & Current COBS Instructor
I have seen students evolve on longer mountaineering courses at COBS. They come in with a competitive attitude which is often a result of school conditioning. But nature is humbling. They learn to take care of themselves as well as others. Fireside chats bring out deeper topics and students start to know their real self. This creates a lot of appreciation and love for oneself.
– Ishani Sawant, COBS Instructor & Fellowship Coordinator
All the times I thought of myself as weak and unworthy my instructor gave me hope that maybe my strength does not lie with grit or brutal resistance, it lies with grace. It lies with humility and service… I now know that there is strength in vulnerability and beauty in imperfection. But most of all I’ve learned that my weaknesses that I see are actually strengths that give others courage to be themselves. Now I know the real meaning of resilience and the real meaning behind humility…even though I make mistakes, there is always room for grace.
– 2020 COBS Southwest Alum
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About the Author
Kelsey (she/her) is the Marketing and Communications Manager at Colorado Outward Bound School.
Today I stumbled upon my C.O.B.S diary from 1979. I had to do a search to see if the Colorado Outward Bound School was still in existence and I was glad to see it is.
I was fortunate in 1979 to be a participant through my school, Carmel Junior High. I was reading some things that mentioned getting kids out to experience the activities the school has available. Then it occurred to me, how would these younger generations do on these trips without access to their phones? So much different than when I was just absent my wrist watch.
I think back on our excursion on the Green and Yampa Rivers fondly. Though memory of minute details escape me now, the grand scheme of the beauty, bringing together kids that may not have exactly liked each other for 10 days, and watch them emerge a part of each other’s life, forever because of the Green and Yampa Rivers, remote wilderness and some patient instructors and school sponsers.
It was a really neat opportunity, way back then. I’m 60 years old now and I still consider myself fortunate to have experienced C.O.B.S. I hope one day I’ll see the Rivers again.
Thank you for letting me reflect on this website.