Jessie Glassmire and her father, Chuck Glassmire shared significant milestones in their lives this year. Chuck saw his youngest child receive her high school diploma along with 20 other Valwood seniors on May 29th. For Chuck, Valwood's Upper School Dean, this was a moment of great pride, perhaps felt more intensely with his daughter among the graduates.
Chuck's desire to mark the occasion with a gift that would make an indelible impact on Jessie's life, lead the two to begin planning a trip of a lifetime.
The chosen destination was the Andes Mountains of Peru. Joining a group of fellow hikers, the duo embarked on a 4 day, 30 mile hike along the Inca Trail. Carrying backpacks containing the essentials for hiking and camping, the group set out from Cuzco, elevation 8000 feet. The challenging trail, at one point reaching an elevation of 14,000 feet, included visits to museums and many Incan ruins. The trail descended to the final destination, Machu Picchu, a pre-Columbian Inca site at 6000 feet.
Noting that the Peruvian adventure is one that few people will ever experience, Chuck said that at times they felt as if the trail might be too difficult. Determined to complete the adventure, the Glassmires persevered. Jessie said, "Completing such a strenuous trek was very empowering. I feel now that I can do almost anything."
Jessie and Chuck also came away from the trip with a greater appreciation for different cultures. "It's good to be reminded that our way is not the only way to do things," Chuck remarked. Perhaps the most valuable realization was the confirmation of a very special bond between father and daughter. Jessie said that others on the trip envied her relationship with her dad and the tremendous opportunity of sharing such an adventure with him.
Jessie will attend Pennsylvania State University this fall. Chuck will continue guiding Valwood's students toward the much anticipated Commencement - a beginning, a going beyond.
