On the Search
A slightly blurred, candid photo capturing a lighthearted moment. A person mid-funny face with a lake in the background.
Editor’s note: Originally written on February 21st, 2014, this post has been updated to reflect not just where I was then, but what I’ve learned since. While the experience itself remains the same, my perspective has shifted with time. This space is about reflection, hope, and gratitude, and my hope is that sharing this story encourages the same in you.
To the curious hearts and reflective spirits, welcome. There is something meaningful about breaking from routine and saying yes to moments that feel simple but unexpected. That’s exactly what happened back in college when a group of us joined in on the fun of a scavenger hunt at the local mall. At the time, it felt playful and random. Looking back, it became one of those small moments that stays with you, not because of what we did, but because of how it made us feel. It made us feel more free, connected, and present.
What started as a simple game quickly became a chance to connect in ways I hadn’t expected. With every silly challenge we completed, laughter grew louder and the day felt lighter. It reminded me how sometimes the best memories come from the most unplanned moments, and how stepping into the unexpected can bring us closer to ourselves and others.
Looking back, those moments were more than just youthful antics. They were reminders of how important it is to let go of self-judgement and embrace joy wherever we can find it. That day taught me that sometimes, the way to grow is by being a little silly and allowing yourself to be fully present without worrying about how you look or what others might think.
Some of our challenges involved spontaneous dancing in crowded walkways, asking strangers for playful participation after asking for permission, loud cheers that echoes through quieter corners of the mall, and even a few teams running through parts of the mall. While it was all fun and games, I now can understand how those actions might have been disruptive other shoppers. Sometimes, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement life has to offer and to forget that public spaces belong to everyone, each with their own pace and comfort.
That said, I am grateful for that experience. Not only because of the laughter and friendships, but because of the lessons it brought with it. I learned the importance of balancing fun with respect. That joy does not need to come at the expense of awareness. And that there is always room to reflect on how we show up in the world around us.
That said, I am grateful for that experience. Not only because of the laughter and friendships, but because of the lessons it brought with it. I learned the importance of balancing fun with respect. And that there is always room to reflect on how we show up in the world around us.
Would I still recommend trying a scavenger hunt? Absolutely! They are a fantastic way to connect with others and challenge yourself to think creatively. That said, I would suggest a few things:
Be mindful of your environment, running is better when done outside
Consider the impact on others in shared spaces
And most importantly, stay present, because often the best memories come from the moments between the objectives
Here’s to light-hearted fun, growing in self-awareness, and staying open to the lessons that even a simple mall adventure can offer.
If this post sparked a memory or made you reflect on your own adventures, I’d love to hear about it. Share your story in the comments or take a moment to reflect privately. Either way, let it remind you that growth often hides in the simplest of moments.
As a signature of my blog, I’d like to end this post with a suggestion to “Pass on kindness.” There’s no time like the present to Inspire Those Who Inspire You. Acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, can have a direct, positive impact on someone else. Go out there today and change someone’s life for the better!
***These are my personal opinions and may not be those of my employer.***
