The other day I received the “2000 Miler” patch from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in recognition for thru hiking the Appalachian Trail. When I opened the envelope and saw the patch, I went numb. It has been close to two months since I finished the hike and I still have a hard time believing it happened. The trail has completely changed my views of life, people, and the great outdoors. After the trail, most people have a hard time returning to a “normal” life. And I understand why. There isn’t enough magic, happiness, or freedom in “normal” life. For me, this “2000 Miler” patch signifies the physical end of the Appalachian Trail adventure. But only the physical end. I’m bringing the mental, spiritual, and emotional characteristics of the trail with me into the rest of my life. I’m bringing the magic, happiness, and freedom with me.
