Henro- Day 27 (Mothers Day) 508 miles walked

​There’s nothing I’m more thankful in my life than the strong women I call mom and my wife.  This year has been a year of tears watching my mom struggle to survive through a cancer diagnosis which was found at a very advanced stage.  She has been a rock for my immediate family and the keystone to making everything work.  Because of this, a lot has changed in 2026.  Between new jobs, new schedules, and new responsibilities, I’m so lucky to have a wife willing to rework her whole life around this without a complaint or a word.  I love you both to the moon and back.  

We are praying daily that we can get to a remission, and I’m seeing the needle move in the right direction with every treatment.  If you’ve been following my blog, you’re probably aware that Buddha and I have became pretty good friends. If you ever read about or research what Buddhism is really about, it’s kinda hard to find things to argue with.  It doesn’t matter what you believe in, but it does matter what you’re thankful for and appreciate.  It’s easy to find the imperfections in the world or the negative, but how lucky am I to have had such a wonderful life with great people in it.  I really couldn’t ask for more.  

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms out there

Never in my life have I met people that are so kind and respectful.  People see you walking by and go out of their way to do something special.  They invite you to sit and talk with them.  They’re so excited you’re there and offer you snacks and drinks for your journey.  They’ll even drive down the road to check on you a little later too.  

Sam here (87) came up and eagerly started teaching us about the history of the Henro.  We spent about an hour chatting, learning, and singing John Denver songs.  He’s was so excited to tell me that never in his life, did he expect he’d be singing Country Road with an American guy.  What a cool moment.

Da-shu

The picture doesn’t do justice, but the drop off next to the trail is sometimes nearly a cliff with trees.  It’s important to watch where you’re walking here.