[at-l] Why?

[Paul A Magnanti <pmags@juno.com>]

>What EXACTLY is it, that Doesn't Matter?
>And after that one is answered, tell us What Exactly Does Matter.

What other people may think of your achievements.  When I thru-hiked the
AT, it was not for the newspaper article in the local paper, it was not
for what people sitting behind a keyboard many miles away from what  the
AT may think, it was not for my friends and family to be proud. 

    It was selfish act, it was for me. It was for me to enjoy the woods
and the peace it brings. It was for the joy of reaching a summit after
climbing for many hours in the hot sun. It was for that final climb up
Katahdin, finishing an adventure that still has a profound impact on me
two years later.

That is why it mattered. If someone was to lie about thru-hiking the
trail, it means that are less than honest. But it does not detract from 
the adventure, the joy, the beauty, the incredible experience, that was
hiking the AT. I would like to think we backpack for more than a patch on
the pack, a plaque on the wall, and a listing in Appalachian Trailway
News. I hike for the enjoyment is brings to me. And that is why it
matters. 


Mags



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An empty can makes the most noise.
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