Saturday, March 10, 2012

'twas the night before March 11

Today has been a mix of emotions as I left all the comforts of home and have headed down to Georgia. The flood of phone calls, text messages, and Facebook comments have all been encouraging. And as excited as I should be to take my first step of this dream hike, I have felt more of everything else...until...

We pulled into Amicolala State Park. This park is the home of Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Once I saw the sign, all the fear, the nervousness, the big mess of stuff I was feeling all seemed to melt away. This is really happening. Over a year of prep, studying, researching, dreaming, it all is worth nothing unless I face the fear and take the first of 5 millions steps. I am ready! Let's do this! Tomorrow my dreams grow legs!

The reason this hike is happening is because of my passion for providing clean water to people who don't have it. I want to do what I can to help people who otherwise wouldn't have that chance to have a better life...a life that deserves even the basics of dignity. There is a second reason I am hiking that I haven't talked as much about. I want to experience life in full and I want others to as well. I have always tried to lead by example so it might as well start with me. Who knows, maybe this will influence you to live out your dreams and passions.

Be the change you want to see.

3 comments:

  1. Brian! It's "Officer Ward" better known as John to most. Heard what you were doing about a week before you checked out of G-Town. Just wanted to let you know I admire what you're doing and hope your goal/"mission" is a success. Good luck to you and enjoy yourself.

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  2. Brian,
    I have been thinking about you all week. I hope the weather has been good and without storms. I bet you don't need your winter sleeping bag right now! I saw at Starbucks today that you had hiked 30 miles as of the 14th. Good going. Can't wait to hear more. Be safe, have fun.
    Sherry

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