In 2003, whilst still a student at university, Christoph Rehage had the gumption to walk from Paris, to his home in Hanover, Germany. In November of 2007 - on his 26th birthday - he set off on a another journey. This time, he intended to walk from Beijing, China to Hanover, Germany. An admirable goal of 4000 kilometers (2485 miles) He never made it to his destination - but did, while away an entire year trekking the panoramic vistas of China - journaling his adventure in a five minute cascade of facial flickers on You Tube. The video has become a smash hit amongst *Tube-ies (*my nickname for Tubelophiles)
In 2003, this Prairie Person, spent little more than a month in Nepal - endured arduous climbing, showered maybe four times total, ate food that I didn't recognize (was it really yak meat?) and if I wasn't constipated, I was dashing behind any tree or rock I could find - with a serious case of the troubles. My nomadic trip up the Everest Trail, was one of the most challenging things I've ever done, and like Christoph Rehage, it enlightened me - spiritually. I witnessed the vastness of this planet and the diversity of other cultures, I saw indescribable suffering, inspiring horizons and fierce forces of nature. Whilst Christoph grew a straggled beard - by the time I reached home, I had some exceptionally hairy legs.
Most people are satisfied to stay safely tucked in - in their carefully constructed routines and that's okay - not criticizing anyone here for it. Walking across a country carrying your world in a rucksack on your back, is not for everyone. But for those of you who have always dreamt of doing it - stop dreaming and go out and do it - eat weird and wonderful things, yodel from a mountaintop, pray with a holy man, squat behind big boulders if you can find them , celebrate life ! Then send me an email and some photos - I'd love to hear about it !
Here's a link to Christoph's blog: