Walking Through Thoughts, Kindness, and Cake

Daily miles: 21.01 | Total miles: 8,069.35

This morning I woke up at 6:30am to an easy start: cold coffee, a bit of packing, and I was on my way just before 8am. Knowing I only had 21 miles to go, both my body and mind felt relaxed.

Walking instead of running brings a different rhythm, a different sense of time, a different objective. It creates space for renewed introspection and deep thinking. It’s fascinating how so many thoughts seem clear while I’m out there moving — and then, when I try to put them into words, they suddenly feel more complex, elusive, and intertwined. Much is fleeting. Much is deep. Much is hidden, with only occasional glimpses into what I’m really trying to understand. Every now and then, it feels like I grasp a tiny piece of it — and then the whole train of thought slips away again, leaving fragments floating in my mind.

Today was another day of being with my thoughts, my emotions, and reflecting on how they influence my behavior. The sky was overcast when I started, with just a narrow sliver of blue on the horizon where I was headed. Hours later, the clouds cleared and the sun shone warmly. I waved to many passing trucks and cars — almost everyone here waves back, and it always gives me a smile.

At one point, a car passed me, then stopped and turned around. A young man, Soma, jumped out holding crackers and asked, “Are you walking?” When I said yes, he went to his car, filled my empty bottle with water, and handed me cookies. His natural, generous way of helping touched me deeply. We both smiled as he drove away, and I kept walking with a happy heart.

When I reached Poochera, I noticed a museum and a group of people nearby with a stand. I thought they were locals, but it turned out they were a family and friends from Victoria on a road trip, enjoying a picnic. They loved hearing about my journey, gave me some money, and shared the most delicious cake — half of which I enjoyed with a cup of cold coffee when I arrived at the caravan park.

Now I’m sitting in a little room with a sink, microwave, and washing machine, recharging my devices and enjoying a bit of shelter from the strong wind that picked up just before I arrived. Later, I’ll pitch my tent and head to the pub for dinner when it opens at 4pm. Who knows — maybe if the wind stays strong, it will carry me and my tent across Australia! (No, not really — I’ve camped in plenty of windy places before, so I don’t mind.)

I’m happy that my pain continues to improve. I’m giving it time and care so that I can keep this journey going the way I envision. For now, I’m living the dream at a slower pace — and that feels just right.

Thanks for following along, my friends. See you tomorrow!