Re: [at-l] look at me stunts and Goose Creek,etc

Not having ever met the lady, but it sounds as you are close to the heart 
of the matter. The trail and similar experiences are very unique, with few 
having a clue why anyone who consider the task. Of course, this is a very 
reasonable and rational response to us. There can be a reaction as if the 
thru hiker is nuts, a hero, a derelict, eccentric, an athlete, whatever.... 
The thru hiker has taken a life changing experience, but is thrust back 
into the real world. You are no longer the person that they recognize, 
although bits and pieces are still there.

I suspect like most gifts, it has much to envy and much to mourn. You had 
the great experience of connecting with yourself, your fellow hikers, and 
the trail. In the real world, such connections are rare. When you discuss 
it, I suspect it sounds both intimate and exhibitionistic - and seems at 
best weird to Flatlanders. I would suggest maintaining that trail journal 
for at least a few months after the hike, at least to keep that level of 
connection for yourself.

OrangeBug

At 10:35 AM 12/29/2000 -0500, David Hicks wrote:
>On the good side, your, "I don't know...hits me, and I stand wherever I am
>like a zombie thinking about the trail, how it affected me, little
>details--the minutiae--that suddenly pop into my head and I smile
>remembering" is so very, very much better than flashbacks and 1000 yard
>stares. However, I suspect something of the same  process is going on in
>your mind.  Although in your case, it sounds like something to envy.
>Something to  hold on to.
>
>Maybe OB could share some light, or point out how far off base I am.

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