Think one person can make a difference? Can we as athletes?
My 68-year-old French friend and I recently completed an eleven-country, two-continent walk for peace to Jerusalem along a trail long associated with war. Our walk from France to Jerusalem traced one marched a millennium ago by Crusaders and those who became the first Knights Templar. Like those men, our walk was challenging.
It was an expedition filled with extreme highs and lows. We trekked 2620-miles (the equivalent to crossing the U.S.) across difficult terrains in extreme climates, from the near-freezing Black Forest to Turkey’s broiling plains. There was the mental test of completing 30-50 km., a virtual marathon, each day. There was always the uncertainly of how Middle Easterners would react once they discovered I was an American. When war erupted in Israel and Lebanon, violence mounted in Damascus, and Hemorrhagic Fever raged in Turkey, everything became uncertain – except for our resolve.
However, we frequently stumbled upon folks whose random acts of kindness bolstered their resolve and rekindled our belief in humankind.
Our trek attracted the attention of national television networks and major newspapers along the way, allowing us to spread a message of peace to millions throughout eleven countries. Without fail, those ordinary people echoed their call to focus on our commonality instead of our differences – and the urgency of resolving our problems before it’s too late.
After 2620-miles, I’m convinced that one person can still make a difference in today’s world – and the time is now. I’m re-establishing this trail as an international path of peace for people of all cultures, faiths and nationalities. Let’s set aside our differences; let’s walk as one.
To that end, my book about that experience has just been published. Along the Templar Trail is a true account of our journey, interweaving advenure, history, religion and politics. It includes maps, photos, stages, helpful hints and a gear list.
Ready for a challenge that can make a difference? Check out this "new" old Templar Trail. My book is available everywhere. Visit our website for a preview.
www.pilgrimstales.com
Tags: Walking Marathon Trek Europe Jerusalem Brandon Wilson Peace Knights Templar
