Bluegrass, Squirrel, Wolfpack and I arrived in Monson, ME on Monday. This is the last stop. Last resupply. Last time I'll wash filthy hiker cloths in a coin operated Laundromat, the last time I will have to pick up my food bag and wonder, "can I survive on this for 5 days?" I've been living in the woods now for more then 5 months, carrying the barest essentials, hiking toward Mt. Katahdin and now all that stands between us is the 100 mile wilderness.
If my writing seems disjointed it's because I am disjointed. My sister asked me how I felt being so close to finishing. Honestly I can't wrap my head around it. I feel excited, happy, sad, relieved, accomplished. I've experienced some of the toughest challenges, purest and loneliest moments of my life out here. I've learned more about myself and my life then I ever could have working a nine to five job for "the man." i have raised money for a cause that is close to me and my family's heart. I've learned what's most important to me and perhaps even better what isn't important. I've swam in glacier lakes, gathered my drinking water from fresh mountain streams, slept in places you wouldn't dream of lying your head and met some of the most interesting people I could have imagined. I've experienced small town America from the deep south to far north and climbed so many beautiful mountains I can't remember all there names. I've walked into towns, stinking with hiker funk and been greeted by people amazed at my journey, berated with questions and congratulated for all I've accomplished. Every winter for the past five years, I've gone into the library and searched for books about the trail. I've tried to imagine how I could make this dream possible. Every spring the same thing happened. I gave up on my dream. Dismissed it as impossible, irresponsible. But six months ago with no job and a general dislike of my life up to that point I took the leap. Sabertooth's willingness to leave his good job and follow our crazy dream certainly helped and my family's unwavering encouragement. And just like that I was on the Appalachian trail. The long journey has brought me to Maine. On more then one occasion I didn't think I would make it. More then once, I was tired and ready to go home. But I persisted and in no small part due to encouragement from home. So how does it feel? As I sit in a kayak on a crystal clear lake in Maine, loons diving all around me, enjoying my last "zero" day, I feel damn lucky. Thankful for all I have. Eager to return home and work hard at new goals. Hopeful I can always stay focused on the things that are truly important in life.
And now, I make one final trip into the woods, marching towards Katahdin.
Matt, that was so beautifully written. It brought tears to my eyes. You could not have said it any better. Can't wait to see you at the end next week. Tell Squirrel, it was great to meet him and congrats on such an awesome accomplishment and we hope to meet up with him again. Chuck and I really enjoyed meeting up with you and your hiking buddies on the trail and spending time getting to know you better. You are always welcome at our house. New England has some great colleges, there is always a bed at our house available. See you next week. Love you, Aunt Charli
ReplyDeleteMatt, I couldn't be more proud of you for all that you have accomplished! I have shared your story with so many in hopes that they would share my amazement at your sheer determination and commitment. I know this is one of those things that will continue to bring you lessons for many years to come. I love u and can't wait to hug you again! Safe travels and see you soon :) xoxo
ReplyDeleteYou definitely brought me to tears. What an awesome adventure and I couldn't be happier for you!
ReplyDelete—Amy Ellis