This past summer CITR was privileged to host Rob and William Peterson. When Rob was a boy he frequented the high country of Northern Colorado, hunting and fishing with his dad and other family members. Now, years later Rob is challenged with a physical disability confining him to a wheel-chair much of the time. Likewise, William, Rob’s son is encumbered by physical limitations.
Through pre-planning and support the Petersons were able to join in on our June 23rd Passage To Manhood Adventure.
I received this letter from the Petersons each expressing their thoughts regarding the adventure at Christ in the Rockies. Through permission we are now able to share this letter with you.
Take a moment to read these words. They have deeply impressed on my heart. I believe they will touch you as well.
Christ in the Rockies,
I know your week is about men and becoming a man, but I wanted to share from a woman’s perspective what your retreat did for my guys. Rob and Will have a very unique relationship, one that was mostly limited to casual companionship due to the fact that each of them have a disability. Over your week they were able to take time to connect more deeply – sharing with each other what the other means to them. Rob enjoyed having the opportunity to share with Will what his childhood was like and what his dreams for Will’s future are. For a moment his disability was pushed aside and he was able to fully be Will’s father and share with Will the foundational truths that God has taught him throughout his life. It helped William see what he has been created to be, how much his Dad loves him and be with his Dad in a new way. The time they spent together planted seeds that will grow deep into Will’s heart as we continue our journey forward.
– Sami Peterson (wife of Rob and mother of William)
Christ in the Rockies,
Thank you again for the incredible opportunity to attend your week retreat. The time together was meaningful beyond words. As a father with a disability who was an avid outdoorsman, having the opportunity to be with my son in the mountains that I use to hunt and fish in as he discovered who God created him to be was something I only dreamed of until you all came along. Even though my disability has taken many things from me, the opportunity you provided for us gave me the greatest gift – time to speak from my heart – where disability doesn’t take away the desire for me to be my son’s father – our time together over the week is an eternal gift that William will always have.
– Rob Peterson
Darrell, Will and Evan. What a view!
Christ in the Rockies,
Thank you for the help you gave my Dad and me so we could come to your retreat. Learning about what it is to be a man was hard but good. Most important of all was the time I got to spend with my Dad. What he told me about becoming a man meant a lot to me and I will remember it even when he is gone. I was glad that I got to tell my Dad how much I love him and learn stuff about his life. Thank you for all you did for us.
– Will Peterson