HOW THE WALK WORKED

Planning for the walk involved contacting government officials and police in each county and town. A borrowed Ford van served as field kitchen and porta-potties were rented and towed along. Two passenger vans served as “blister buses” for those who needed to take a break. All campsites were pre-arranged. A truck and trailer hauled the camping gear each day. Medical supplies were available for minor emergencies.

The Walkers got on the road each day at 8:00 a.m. and got off between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m., depending on the location of the day’s destination. Each day began and ended with a sharing circle. At the morning circle the day leader outlined the details for that day: where to start and stop, locations of breaks and lunch, and special things to do or to avoid. The spiritual leader provided guidance and strength.

About one day each week was designated as a day off. These breaks provided opportunity to do laundry, see the local sights, rest and relax, and take care of personal business.

Every fourth or fifth day the walk stayed overnight in a church or union hall or on private property. Dinner and breakfast were provided. “Town Meetings” were held to meet the local people and hear their issues and how they were dealing with them. These town meetings were very important events. They not only served as sources of information, but many friendships were established and the townspeople and Walkers found inspiration in one another.