Message from Felipe Sanchez

[Jim Damico]

> 6.  After 6 weeks of daily drudgery the novelty disappears.
> Only a decisive mind permitted me to finish La Plata in Santiago
> and proceed to Finis Terre. Toward the last the task of
> awakening, mounting the pack, and taking those first few steps
> was a test of resolve and diligence.

While hiking the Appalachian Trail, I had a very similiar experience.  After
a while, it becomes like a "job":  you get up and you walk, and the at the
end of the day you stop and rest.  Just another day at the office.  The
up-side is that it's an awesome 'office'!


> 8.  After two months of walking the activity becomes a new
> habit. Whereas I ceased abruptly and returned to the States,
> the absence of this daily routine engendered a deep depression.
> An aspirant might anticipate a similar reaction.

Be warned: Long distance walking becomes an addiction.  The freedom, the
open air, the people.  You soon forget the rain, the sore muscles, the
loneliness.  Once you return to 'normal' society, you become different.
Accept it, know it will happen, and be thankful you are "DIFFERENT".
<smile>

Jim Damico of Kansas City, MO
www.WanderingTheWorld.com
hiking, biking & beyond...