The End of Running
Dear Family and Friends, Close and Far,
It has been over a year since I started down this path. In a constant state of forward-momentum, I had the opportunity to meet and experience some of the most unique people, communities and wonders of the world. Most often these encounters were not by my own design, but were rather a beautiful, spontaneous coexistence shared at the same time, in the same place. I consider these moments, each on their own and together as a whole, to be a blessing in my own life, and for that I give thanks.
For those who were there at the beginning, when this project was just the seed of an idea, I give thanks for your unwavering love and support. It was your encouragement that sustained my spirit. For those I encountered along the way, who shared something of yourselves with me, in food, clothing, shelter, money, or just your time, I also give thanks. Without your kindness, generosity, compassion and openness to the unconventional, this project would not have born fruit.
On November 2nd, 2008, I stopped running. While the circumstances surrounding this decision are too numerous to explain here, the summary of those reasons can be reduced to this: it was the right time. I stand at the end of this experience, having traveled a road that crisscrossed through an field fertile with nature and humanity, and I am overwhelmed with joy for where I have been, and what I have witnessed.
And I give thanks.
Michael Eckblad
From The Beginning...