This book.

If you are experiencing a life changing event, trying to improve yourself or traveling on a journey (literal or otherwise), you need to read this book.  If you’re just looking for a good book, this one is for you too. It’s the kind of read that made me want to slow down and savor every word. This doesn’t happen often.

It’s called “Walking To Listen” and was written by a young man named Andrew Forsthoefel.

The author walked out the back door of his Pennsylvania home and continued walking about 4,000 miles to the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, he met all sorts of people – strangers who took him in, who fed him, who showed him great kindness. They also talked to him. they shared stories about their lives and their philosophies. He carried a sign that read “Walking to Listen” and he recorded some interviews while simply listening to others. He blogged about some and the book is about the journey.

He was 24 at the time of his walk. He carried with him Walt Whitman and Rilke for guidance and inspiration. He did not carry a smart phone. He learned to plan his journey with a map and with help from strangers. He survived Death Valley in the summer and he conquered being alone with his own thoughts for thousands of miles over many, many months.

The writing is rich, reflective and deep. It’s one of those books that made me think and  that gave me something to process long after I put it down for the day. Every person has a story to tell and I love the idea of journeying across country to listen and learn. I admire him for taking these steps.

Here are a few pictures of passages that spoke to me. Have a look and, if you’re intrigued, check out the book. It’s well worth your time.