How did the experience change you? My thoughts on this are unchanged from the epilogue, in which I cited patience, less concern over money, and a greater inclination to do things. I’ll add that I did not seek these changes. Change is inevitable on such unique and prolonged endeavors, with one caveat: the journey is no cure-all. Loading it with expectations will increase the odds of a premature end. Issues festering at home will follow hikers onto the trail. If you are broke to begin with, you will be more broke upon your return. When setting out, I wanted a break from my routine; I wanted
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