Six Million Steps: A Journey Inward - Christina Lobosco

This documentary allowed the class to take an inside look in the lives of hikers walking the Pacific Crest Trail.  This trail spans 2,650 miles ranging from Mexico to Canada, which is actually longer than the Appalachian Trail. I was extremely intrigued by listening to each hiker’s point of view and personal experiences from the trail.  One account described hiking as “life stripped to its core.”
Many people left everything they had to walk the Pacific Crest Trail, leaving their friends, families, and jobs.  Hikers predominately venture on the trail to find what they lost or to find something. It was expressed in a particular account that daydreaming about the trail won’t do anything about walking the trail, the hikers need to leave their security behind and start their adventure.  The hikers continuously said while walking the trail they viewed life differently and provided a “test on yourself.”
I was very moved by one particular hiker.  After losing a friend who always wanted to walk the trail, he took his ashes and spread them on a place that was meaningful to both of the men.  The motives range between each individual, but all personal to each hiker. Walking the trail provides clarity and crystallized your purpose.
The documentary continued to talk about different encounters, but eventually categorized the video into different topics.  I loved learning about trail names and the fact that each name must be given by your hiking companions. Also, I thought it was interesting that these names are sacred identities, so much so that many hikers don’t know their companions actual name.  Another topic that was brought up was the trail towns and sense of community while walking. The communities on the trail were described as being welcoming and a renewal of faith. It is many people with the same mentality and motives as one another, which inevitably leads to instant friendships and long lasting bonds.  I loved hearing that being on the trail allowed for a rejuvenation and detox of technology and busy schedules. Hikers take a leap of faith and benefit throughout their life because of their decision.

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