Gracie Kay Close- Thoughts on the Trails

 I hate hiking. I have never seen it as more than just a very awful way of exercise. It is usually hot, bug infested, and uncomfortable. It was not until hearing Professors encounters across these many pilgrimages he has gone on that I have started to understand that it is so much more than a hike.  

In class Professor discussed his encounters on the Appalachian Trail. I have family that lives in a part that intersects the trail, so I understand what people might come across in terms of people on the trail. After listening to Professors's journey, I understand where this could be a transformational experience. It is not easy to go across these mountains, nor to take on the mental journey of leaving many comforts of the modern world. One of my favorite things to hear about was the trail names bestowed on everyone. I know it is a fun way of recognition across the group of people that undergo these mountains, but I also see it as an honor. Undergoing such a journey is no easy feat, so to be given a name (a recognition) is such an honor. The names seemed to also be worn proudly from something they are known for/doing on the trail. I think that this shows dedication and high praise. I also enjoyed the concept of flow we discussed from Professors journey on the Appalachian trail. This is what really allowed me to have such a revelation about such. 

Professors account on the Camino trail is what really derailed all previous expectations I had on the matter. Seeing the amount of people who come out on the pilgrimages, and the stories shared truly inspire the human journey. I found the story of Shaemus to be very heartfelt. I have noticed how many connections are made on these trails, and the spirituality that also is in effect beyond a simple walk on a path. 

I would probably still hate all the bugs encountered on these journey's, but I understand how much more it can mean to someone's personal journey. I have a different perspective and appreciation for the act now. 

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