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When a 1/1 cache is enough
Geocachers with special needs
As I handed over my GPSr and our "Treasure" bag to a couple of Special Needs folks, I realized to them it is not the difficulty or terrain rating that mattered. It comes down to the feeling of accomplishment and most importantly the feeling of being included.
As my wife and I strolled along behind and observed the caching ahead, we discussed how much it seemed to them that "They" were finding these treasures, in this beautiful State Park.
I know I enjoyed being a teacher of sorts, helping to guide them in the right directions, hearing "I found it!", explaining the contents of the treasure boxes, enjoying the smiles, and hearing the genuine gratitude and excitement coming from their voices as they talked on the way to the next cache.
When I heard that Geocaching was being discussed amongst these folks and their support personnel afterwards, and the question of when we were going again, I knew then that it had made a difference and that they would be included again when it was appropriate.
A couple hours, a little guidance, and a few small trinkets helped open another world for all of us.
Heather and Tom, thank you for company and your inspiration.