TTI Treasure Story #1!
On page 158 of the book, Jon Collins-Black writes: “I hope you will share your stories with one another. Much can be learned through mutual experiences.”
What better way to show our appreciation for JCB’s Treasure Hunt than by sharing our stories with each other. Read how you can participate! Much appreciation for Matt to share a bit of his search for the AT treasure box! Thank you. Also, much is being shared on the MW Discord – join us there!
Treasure Story #1: Six Questions with Matt (Goldfinder) on the search for The Appalachian Footpath Treasure Box:
- 1Q) What Treasure were you searching for?
We were searching for Jon Collins-Black Appalachian Footpath Box. It’s always been a dream of mine to find a treasure in the Green Mountains, and the AT was in my backyard, as a matter of fact AT mile marker 1727 was just a bike ride away from where I grew up.
- 2Q) What inspired you to search for that treasure?
Inspiration to hunt for the AT box is deeply rooted in Family, having spent so much of my childhood raised in the outdoors. My two brothers and I are all Eagle Scouts, so hiking and camping is second nature. The Box Seth Gould made is beautiful, it caught my attention, sparked my imagination and has driven me to this quest.
- 3Q) What did you enjoy most about your search?
The most enjoyable part of my search was spending time with family. Making new friends along the way, and even running into another Eagle Scout, and his father who was also a Boy Scout leader like my Dad. Technology has anchored our society, and thanks to people like Jon Collins-Black, we all get to find more Joy in life.
- 4Q) Can you share some of the clues or story in your search for treasure?
Clues often have so many meanings and symbolisms, it’s often hard to decipher clue, from reality while BOTG. Having searched for the Forest Fenn treasure, I can say that you need to “think outside the box” while you search for the AT Footpath Box. Consider taking the path less traveled, as it may lead you somewhere new and, maybe even, another clue.
- 5Q) What is the most memorable moment or unique thing found while searching?
The most unique things I found while searching for the AT box. I’ve included a photo of something I found in a search area, A chain, bound around a tree with a padlock keeping it there forever. The lock had been there for quite some time and may have symbolized something significant when it was placed there. Having searched what many refer to as the “magnifying glass” who’s seen the canoe in the woods?
- 6Q) Do you have any advice for someone else looking for treasure or is there something more you would like to say?
The best piece of advice I can offer to a fellow searcher, is to trust your instincts. Heighten your level of self-awareness while outside. Allow yourself to be in the moment, and check-in with yourself from time to time.
Be grateful we’re given the opportunity to live out our childlike dreams of finding the treasure. For many people, being outside in the mountains is a relief from the daily routine. Jon Collins-Black has written an outstanding book, I have no doubts it’s helped people already in countless ways. Let’s raise awareness about mental health and be happy and hopeful this book can help you, or someone you know.
A huge thanks to Jenny from Mysterious Writings. For her unwavering dedication to helping us all navigate this wildly exciting chapter in our lives. A big thanks to Jon Collins-Black for giving us all the chance to be a part of your story as well! Good luck to all and Be Safe!
Also – Feel free to follow more of my adventures on Instagram @Liftmeup406.
Best of luck with all that you seek! Always Treasure the Adventure!
Again – If you’d like to share YOUR TREASURE STORY – Please do! We’d love to hear it!