ith the unveiling of the Shemanese and the overwhelming response to the "new" logo adorning the blade, it's remarkable how something can captivate hearts and minds, even after all these years. Little did we know that the emblem we now proudly showcase has been a part of Nature Reliance School for almost 20 years. 
The genesis of our current logo traces back to 2009 when I sought to redefine the very essence of Nature Reliance School. Dissatisfied with my initial design, I collaborated with a gifted graphic designer. During our fantastic conversation, I shared my aspirations for NRS, and my vision of what it could become. I brought along several cherished items like a longhunter's knife, a symbol of heritage and growth, and some American chesnut (Castanea dentata) leaves, a tribute to resilience, we sculpted the heart of NRS. The slogan, "Where Practical Meets Natural," emerged, encapsulating the spirit of our organization and its community.
Over the years, we've experimented with different mottos and outros, each reflecting our journey of discovery. "Come on, join in, let's learn together," coined by NRS Instructor Tracy Trimble, just seemed, well, so right. It truly encapsulates what we wanted to do, which was build a community of people.
Our philosophy remains unwavering – we aim to empower individuals not just to survive but to thrive harmoniously with nature. To be proactive, to embrace practicality, while never losing sight of our profound interdependence with the natural world. Modernity may offer comfort and convenience, but water and food, just like the air we breathe, are timeless gifts.
Now, you may wonder why the knife and the leaf in our emblem? They are not mere symbols; they represent profound stories etched into the fabric of our existence. The knife, an artistic rendition of a long hunter's tool, pays homage to our ancestors, whose wisdom paved the way for us to learn and grow. We stand on the shoulders of legends, and it is our duty to acknowledge their contributions with gratitude and humility.
Then there's the leaf, an American Chestnut leaf, a tribute to resilience against the odds. The American Chestnut faced near extinction due to a blight, paralleling a time when industrialization overshadowed our nation's agrarian roots and appreciation for the wilderness. We are that remnant, steadfast in our mission to cherish nature's wisdom and share the treasure of outdoor skills that foster true connection and understanding.
Amidst a world driven by keywords and trending buzz, we remain proudly hidden yet steadfast in our values of integrity, stewardship, and nurturing one another. Our journey transcends the mundane; it's about nurturing relationships, embracing ethics, and fostering positive growth.
To our cherished students, past, present, and future, you are the heartbeat of our logo, the soul of our community. With humility and gratitude, I thank each one of you for walking this path with us. Your unwavering support and dedication affirm the importance of our mission.
Whether it's training a US military man-tracking team or delighting in the wonder of a tulip poplar bud, every step we take is a testament to our commitment to be more aware, more proactive, and more in sync with the great outdoors.
I eagerly anticipate crossing paths with you, on the trail and off, as we explore the boundless wonders of this world, discovering the beauty of the wild and the strength that resides within each of us. Together, we shape a future where the timeless wisdom of the past converges with the limitless potential of tomorrow. Let's walk this path of inspiration and embrace the harmonious symphony of practicality and nature that resounds in every heartbeat.