Muddy boots, pungent socks, and immense thirst and hunger. Despite these pains, nature seems to have a spooky, calming effect. Discovering that your beliefs are mistaken is hard to face. After the three best days of my life, an immense sorrow consumed me when I realized it was over. I was Sean, a 15-year-old materialistic Chinese boy born in New Zealand. I believed brand names and cashmere suits were worth more than relationships and a positive attitude. I wished for three things in life: good grades, money and labels. I was delusional but do not believe I am alone. I know many teenagers today suffer the same condition.

After a hefty bribe from my dad, I agreed to walk the Routeburn Track in Queenstown, New Zealand: a three-day 40 kilometer hike. Looking back, I would give up anything to experience that walk again. One more step, one more conversation with my smart tour guides, one last view of the amazing scenery, and one last chance to silently mull over my insecurities.

The views on the Routeburn Track were far superior to anything – beating out chateaus in Europe, architectural icons in the States and the Great Wall of China. The Routeburn Track is the champion. The first day we reached the Earland Falls, a magnificent waterfall that spews without restraint. The water is so fresh and crisp, cool but not freezing. I am insignificant compared to this landmark. I am an ant gazing up at its grand design. My problems are minuscule compared to this great monstrosity. Awestruck, an intangible feeling envelops me. Materialism disappears –if only for an instant. Thoughts of diamonds or gold vanish. Peace streams down upon me like a subtle nudge from God. This mythical landmark changes me. I know no amount of cash could account for this feeling.

The climb to the top of Conical Hill is the most agonizing experience I have ever endured. The seething pain surged from calf to thigh, and sweat dripped like the Earland Falls, constant and in great volume. Rocks, jagged and sharp, make the climb on all fours the only viable option. The reward, however, transforms this temporary hell into permanent heaven: clear lakes surround enormous mountains, creating a blissful scene. God’s whistle, in the form of wind, brushes past us. Clouds thin and light as ghosts, hang from the blue sky. A calm envelops me, connecting me with something higher than Earth. Pain doesn’t last forever but awe and amazement do. Women claim childbirth is the most agonizing feeling, yet this world is immersed in siblings. This peak is a prominent example of the fleeting memory of suffering. Tangible objects cannot be compared to emotional and spiritual comfort. If I did not climb that hill, I would have lost an important mental touchstone. Materialism only allows for temporary fulfillment; embedded memories last forever.

After a long day of walking, the Ultimate Hikes’ huts are a welcome surprise. Instead of displeasing and dirty accommodation, we were welcomed to ample refreshments, a warm shower, and a lovely host. The service is unbelievable. The main conspiracy of the walk is that losing weight should be easy. However, the meals are so substantial and tasty it makes this prospect close to impossible. The environment is easy and relaxing. Adults crack open bottles of wine while children watch with begging glances. The conversation flows naturally as the lakes. Often we get caught up in city life, which we equate with being judged by our possessions. This easy-going ambiance allows for self-reflection and enjoyment.

I held conversations with many interesting people that night. From seniors to children to university students, they all had one thing in common: a respect for nature and its greatness. Despite their varied backgrounds, everyone’s conversation revolved around the natural landscape and wildlife they had seen that day. But my most intriguing conversations were with my guides: university students who chose to spend their free time exploring nature. They possessed an air of maturity, and I was never viewed as just a high school kid. We held intriguing conversations and none of them revolved around materialism. I had a realization that they somehow managed to balance fun and work. They were the main reason for my change of heart, and without them, the whole experience would have been less meaningful. Recruiting guides who display a loving passion for the outdoors is something Ultimate Hikes excels at. They are truly impressive.

This walk changed my perspective of the world. In this decade, materialism is so prominent among teenagers. It’s not that materialism will ever disappear, but as I embrace my materialistic side I have also developed an appreciation for the immaterial, including experiences that can never be replicated. I am Sean: a young adult who believes close relationships and a positive attitude are more important than the material world. I can’t wait until my next adventure filled with muddy boots, pungent socks and nature’s ineffable calm.