Introduction

About Pathways

Appalachian Trail

Why Walk?

Make a Pledge

Hiking Schedule

Journal

Photos

Links

Acknowledgements

May 20, 2001

Post-graduation. Repacking my car. Reading Women and the Appalachian Trail. Pondering what I really mean by the slogan for Moving Comfort, "A Fit Woman is a Powerful Woman." If I walk 15-20 miles a day with 40 pounds on my back and my body still has flaws--I still have cellulite on my legs that work all day everyday--then that's okay. When I'm in peak physical condition, imperfections become misdirected expectations. I thought I didn't care about my body because I didn't care about the people hiking around me who see it each day. Really it's because I rely on my body so much that the lines between self and body are thinning. All of the negative aspects of my body I blamed on myself for not staying in better shape are no longer important.

There is no place I'd rather be than on trail. That's why I think I'll succeed. I have nothing else to go to. I don't know whether it's more apparent to me that I've found inner strength or that I realize there's no end to finding people who are curious, helpful, sincere listeners and friends. It's easier to make these people my resources and refine what I take from them than to pine away for emotional support that I used to have. I also find that I need them less because there are more of them. Or is it because I have options for emotional outlets that I don't always need to use the outlets? Because I dictate what I need and what I take from these people, they are soundboards off of which to bounce my own strength. Because I don't have to walk alone, I am able to.