In the past four months, I have driven more than 16,000 miles across 18 states in the USA. I have stopped in more than 50 towns and cities, spent 130 nights on the road, and met more people than I could ever begin to count or relay.
I am (close to) speechless.
This journey, both to the open road and while on the open road, has not been the easiest one. I’ve had setbacks and struggles, I’ve course corrected and managed my own expectations. But frankly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
This time on the road has already taught me so much: about myself, about community, about identity and neighbors and America as a whole. I have seen the most beautiful demonstrations of love and identity unfold before my eyes, and have been welcomed into communities with open arms.
I am grateful:
For every person who has let me listen to their story, whether we record it formally or kick back over a few cold beers.
For every time my world view has been challenged, and I’ve been given the opportunity to look at the country and it’s many quirks from a new lens.
For the opportunity to capture your stories and join your communities, and take away so much more joy than I ever thought people could generously give.
For hours spent on winding county highways, with no cell signal and endless time to think, digest and synthesize what I’ve learned.
For the ways I’ve changed, and what I’ve learned about myself, from the kindness and experience of others.
For every time someone plays Lizzo or Morgan Wallen unprompted in a dusty dive bar.
For the kindness of strangers and acquaintances, who open up their doors for a safe place to rest.
For my friends and family, who put up with my sporadic texting and phone calls, are patient during my meltdowns and celebrate my wins, and are always there when I need them the absolute most.
For coffee, and all of it: the gas station pickups, the artisan brews, and everything in between. It’s the secret sponsor to my productivity.
For the road, for I am awed by the opportunity to take the one less traveled.
So thank you, in short, for all of this and so much more. Thank you for taking this journey with me, for all of your emails, comments, donations, likes and shares. I wouldn’t be here without you — I am well aware — and yes, it’s true:
I am enormously, profoundly grateful.
