The fountain of youth
Because this year had been tough, and I had to distance myself from trail’s world, I didn't think that returning to it would provide me with such sensations. I believed I was doomed to dwell in the nostalgia of the past year, aware of the inexorable decline of my strength.
And then, I started walking.
Walking requires one's full attention. Fears and doubts swirl in the mind, but as soon as the steps begin to flow, they lose their substance and grip. What remains are practical thoughts: where to find water, where to stop for a meal, where to sleep.
And then, drawing inspiration once again from the Lord of the Ring, I recalled that moment when King Théoden, withered by years of inactivity, grasped his sword and regained his vitality. That's the feeling I had when I took hold of my walking sticks. Departing at half past five (thanks to the time difference), I had reached my initial goal of walking thirty kilometres by one o'clock. I sat down for a bit, but realizing that I wasn't tired at all, I continued.
On the first day, I managed forty kilometres. I thought it was because my legs were fresh. On the second day, I did the same. And the third as well. The end of the day was challenging, but more due to jet lag and mental fatigue. My body and feet were aching but holding up. The weakness I had assumed was merely a creation of my mind.
As my strength returned, so did the sense of freedom. Being able to swim, I could truly enjoy the lakes of Oregon to the fullest. Once again, I felt young, strong, and happy.
And I finally managed to complete the journey in five days, which was supposed to take six. Upon arriving in Bend, I was exhausted but as happy as on the first day. Just like last year.
I thought before coming back that I had been definitively cast out of paradise and the gates of heaven had closed, and , but that was not the case. Heaven is very much present on Earth, and it's just waiting for us to let go of most of our possessions and follow the dirt trail that winds into the mountains.
