Mile 275. Return to innocence.

Today was an effortless 18-mile glide. A lightness in my soul transcends to every muscle of my body. Even my pack feels light.

I drive my right trekking pole into the ground - then whoosh! - I soar to the right. I drive my left trekking pole into the ground - then whoosh! - I soar to the left.

The hills are my playground today. The birds watch in appreciation - they lend me their wings.

The words of Enigma's “Return to Innocence” stop me in my tracks:

.

“Don't be afraid to be weak

Don't be too proud to be strong

Just look into your heart my friend

That will be the return to yourself

The return to innocence.”

.

My heart explodes with joy. Tears erupt. My legs stop. And I plop down into a sun-basked spot on the trail, surrounded by umbrella plants. I take it all in.

I am doing this. I am really doing this. I have risked everything - all those things that profess happiness. None of them come close to the elegant simplicity of the Trail.

Even as tears continue to stream, I pick myself up. And I continue my childlike play down the trail.

I don't want this to end.