It’s easier to shape the mindset of newcomers when they first enter the outdoor scene—just like when children start school. Whatever you teach them at that stage sticks, just like writing on a blank sheet of paper. Once bad habits or misconceptions take root, they become much harder to correct. For instance, values like environmental protection, safety, and discipline—compared to many other outdoor groups, people generally feel that the Peak or Zouping hiking community demonstrates higher quality and stronger team spirit. This is the result of the collective efforts of all outdoor enthusiasts. Personally, I believe there should be no boundaries among hikers, and this is especially true in Zouping. If any one outdoor group has problems, it can be fatal to the entire Zouping outdoor community. If any group neglects the development of newcomers, it will inevitably make it harder for others to instill proper outdoor values. Only by working together can the Zouping outdoor scene thrive in the long run. I remember Teacher Fengdianyu Peak once posted about “Heban and Peak,” and I can confidently say that years from now, this will be a post of guiding significance—one that is programmatic and milestone-like. I say this not to criticize any particular outdoor group. Even Peak could do better—why collaborate with outdoor groups from other regions but not with your fellow Zouping-based outdoor groups? I see that Daoge is also reflecting on these matters. Only those who focus their energy on how to develop the outdoors are truly positive and healthy outdoor enthusiasts.
Looking at the journey of Peak, it’s clear that while making new friends, we must not forget the old ones—that’s how we grow. The atmosphere of Peak is something to be thankful for, thanks to its members. The composition of the group determines its harmonious and friendly vibe. Of course, there may be differing opinions, but as the saying goes, the waves wash away the sand. Those who join the outdoors with impure motives will naturally leave. Participating in outdoor activities is about staying fit, making friends, and relaxing the mind.
Returning from Wuyuan, I’m quite tired, so I’ve rambled a bit and probably wasted everyone’s time. I just want to tell those who haven’t yet joined the outdoor community to always remember their original motivation for getting into it. And to those who have already stepped into the outdoors: fulfill your responsibilities, because you, too, were once new, weak, and uncertain. The outdoors is first about self-reliance, then mutual assistance—it’s not cheap tourism, and it requires discipline as its foundation.