The Good – Fox AT Thru Hike – Day 88

I’m two-thirds of the way to hiking the Appalachian Trail. With triple zero, it seemed like a good time to share some of my feelings along the way. So what have been the good parts of hiking the Appalachian Trail?

Nature

I’ve mentioned this before, but I love Appalachia. By being on the trail every day, you get to experience a lot of nature. Part of it is the odds. Since most hikers spend more than 120 days outdoors 24/7, you’ll be able to see plenty of animals. But the plants are even better. I have enjoyed the flowers, but also the smell of rhododendron and sassafras. A better writer than me could somehow shape the words to convey this feeling to you. Unfortunately, I can’t even promise you that you will experience it. The peace I feel on this walk is a product of my own past, where the forest was a sanctuary.

Time

At no other time in my life has there been so much time to think, so much time in my own head. Daily life forces many distractions and offers many more. It would be nearly impossible to spend four or five hours thinking about a single problem at home, but the trail provides that time. During my walk, this time has helped me tremendously, from solving household logistical challenges to figuring out how to finish a languishing writing project. Many hikers spend much of the day listening to music or audiobooks. I encourage any future hikers to consider spending some time in contemplation. At 2,200 miles both can happen and you’re not likely to have another opportunity like this.

Kindness

Many people, from co-workers to strangers, have offered support along the way. This genuine kindness has occurred in most cases without any expectations. My coworkers gathered and sent supplies, cards, and financial support. Freshground, along with Magic Mama and others, made sure I didn’t lose weight in those first 400 miles. Red’s family took me in and helped me fix my injury. Red and Snow have been an endless source of support and truly, without Snow sending my resupplies, I would be out of place. The positive support is overwhelming and I cannot express my deep gratitude.

Keep this in mind when you read my next post. The bad is… bad, but the good is better.

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