Yesterday was quite the adventure. When I woke up I was greeted by a blanket of snow on the ground. It was only two days into my journey and I had already been able to experience a variety of weather conditions.
From my hotel in Frazer, I set off into the brisk morning air to walk along Route 30 towards Lancaster County. Despite the cold, I still felt the burning and exciting energy inside of me. I even took my camera out to take a few pictures along the way. While walking along, many thoughts and ideas began circulating in my head. My mind wandered, only interrupted by the occasional rushing back wind of a tractor trailer driving by.
I was excited about these new ideas, thoughts, and even memories. While packing up to leave the hotel yesterday morning, I found a card in my backpack from one of my daughters and was moved by the simple gesture of love she sent to travel along with me. This prompted me to think of the influential individuals in my life, such as my family and friends and people I’ve met throughout my lifetime. So I have decided to include an additional section to my blog. It will be a category titled, “Silent Heroes” and will feature people who not only inspire me, but inspire and influence others and even all of humankind as well.
Motivated by my many new ideas, I tackled the rolling hills of Lancaster County. Last evening became a great test of my strength. As I reach the top of each hill, I surveyed the area with the hopes of finding a place to stay for the night. It took many hilltops before I finally found a place to sleep around 11:30pm. While this has been a great experience thus far, I now understand that I have to become accustomed to this different lifestyle that is ahead of me for the journey. While each day presents a new and different adventure, I still have to become used to the way of life that is now my own for the next however many months.
Today’s weather is expected to be a little chilly but I am looking forward traveling along the Trail under the warmth of the brilliant sunshine.
Peter: It was nice to meet and have lunch with you in Carlisle. It was also a pleasure to share the rye bread–and its Polish roots–with you.
Your imagery as you viewed the Indian School grave markers reminded me of something. Someday you need to view the Australian movie “Rabbit Proof Fence”. Though from the other side of the world, it is a story of similar social engineering and its affect on those involved.
Happy trails to you!
Tom Wonsiewicz