About

A statement about Project Freedom Quest from founder Eric Friedman:

Project Freedom Quest was born from my own personal experiences. In my many journeys into nature, I have found a profound connection to spirit and a deep sense of freedom. I am most deeply connected with myself, my purpose and spirituality when I am in nature, away from civilization with all my needs on my back. I want to give a group of young men the chance to connect to their deeper selves and inspire them to learn and discover. Also, I believe the rites of passage are missing from the lives of boys today, yet they are important and meaningful. I want to present a challenge and create a space for young men to be strong and powerful.

As a high school teacher for seven years, I came to know how direct experience in life is the best teacher. I have seen how students respond to challenges that are meaningful in their own lives. In PFQ, I have created an environment where boys will be motivated by their own learning and growth. I intend with this project to be more of a guide than a teacher, holding the space for discovery and watching the magic that unfolds.

I have been sourced in my life’s path by many powerful people and teachings. Recently, I have been influenced by the teachings of Tom Brown, Jr. In his books, Tom Brown relays the philosophies and visions passed down to him by an Apache elder named Grandfather. Grandfather’s connection to nature and spirit was deep and powerful; he lived in a world of balance, prayer and purpose. Tom Brown teaches the importance of a spiritual connection to nature. He explains, through grandfather’s teachings, how in our modern lives we have come out of balance and rely too heavily on the physical world for pleasure and satisfaction. A truer, deeper life’s purpose lies within our own spiritual selves, and the most important way of connecting to that spirit is by journeying into nature. I am inspired by Tom Brown’s commitment to preservation through the teaching of nature skills. He has dedicated his life to showing people how to live in harmony and balance with the Earth.

Another source of inspiration in my life comes from a men’s circle that I have been a part of for two and a half years. Each week we gather around a fire to support each other in our lives as men. Circling with men is an ancient tradition that is all but lost in modern times. The concept of a man’s purpose was introduced to me through my circle and I have come to know that my purpose is to inspire learning, fun and interested in life. I know the men of my circle as powerful listeners who give more through being than doing. Through the work of the men’s circle, I have felt my strength, compassion, depth and truth. I have also learned how to support other men in their lives. PFQ would not exist without the support of this circle.

Spiritual influences in my life have a broad scope. I am moved and motivated by the teachings of the Buddha, Hindu philosophy, Native American traditions and the simple concept of God or creator. My church is nature. When I take myself deep into nature and rekindle my connection to Earth and spirit, I find a simplicity and peace that is beyond any religion. I experience a sense of freedom that transcends physical reality. I come to know myself, my place in the universe and my ultimate connection to everything.