Walking Across America-Day 71

A big thanks to Jim Burns from Quincy, IL who sent me a very supportive and optimistic email today. A big shot in the arm. And, he wired me $100 to help with my expenses too!

Jim I thank you again for your help but even more for your friendship and your words of encouragement. I trust your trip out to Colorado will be exciting and fun!

Looking forward to getting back to the Mahnken Ranch in Salisbury too. Thanks to Mark and Susie for all of their generosity with money and with their home and food and friendship!!

I am thinking that this decision to walk across America was the best decision I have made in years. I would never have met all the people I now count as friends across two states. And the best part is knowing that this will continue to multiply as I keep shuffling west towards the Pacific.

Although I am somewhat leery of going back to Salisbury because of the time factor I am realizing that as Jim Burns told me today my trip is a metaphor or a microcosm of life itself... two steps forward and one step back. That's life!

Can't wait to see the Mahnkens again!

But I am saddened by the thought of saying goodbye to my son Josh. We had some great conversations especially one in which he called me out on some childhood issues I caused. But as it turned out the conversation was productive...mainly due to Josh not becoming emotional but rationally relating to me the issues I needed to be confronted with. Thanks Hoss! I needed it! I am impressed by Josh's maturity and courage in bringing all of this into the light of day. I needed it.

I am sure I will be confronted by my daughter Allyson and my middle son Andrew at some point in time. It will be cathartic for all of us. I miss Andrew and Ally too. As someone once told me life is all about saying hello and saying goodbye. So true. So true!