Monday, July 30, 2007

I've Been Patronized!!

I have always commented that I simply want someone to patronize my life; to simply pay for my existance that I may be free to pursue whatever creative endeavor that blew through my spirit. I would complete all of the art I ever wanted to do through my blue period, yellow period, and a minor venture into magenta. I would be free to join Circ Du Soleil, write a symphony, or the great Canadian novel (why not). I didn't figure that was too much to ask.

Well this last week was a taste of just that, though I didn't actually do any art. The retired proffessor who took me in was entirely too kind (if that's possible.) His hospitality was above and beyond anything I expected almost to the point of decadence. For an entire week I was spoiled with great meals, great conversation, a couple nights at the movies, and a trip to Washington D.C. where we toured the National Gallery and I took in Degas, Monet, Manet, and a host of modern favorites. I sat for twenty minutes in front of an image that I never thought I'd see in person. A painting by my hero, Mr. Mark Rothko. Check out the image for yourself, but keep in mind that it is 9-10 feet tall!

http://www.hohpe.com/Gregor/Travel/2002/DC/rothko.jpg

I am still here in Gettysburg though no longer staying with the proffessor. Last Wednesday I stopped by a place called Emmaus to take in a concert that I'd heard about. It is a great venue located downtown in the former Elks building, complete with a full kitchen, coffee bar facilities, and of course a two lane bowling alley in the basement. But through the course of the evening, I found that it was much more.

One floor above the concert venue in this grand old building were several apartments occupied by Christians who ran the shows as well as a thrift store on the third floor. These Christians call themselves an "intentional community." They desire to know and experience what it truly means to be a community and to be a positive part of the greater community around them.

Naturally I was intrigued and after a couple conversations, I was invited to stay with them for a time. So I packed my things yesterday and moved in (temporarily.) But before that, there was Sunday; and what an interesting experience that was.

I went to three different services in the course of this Sunday. But the second one was certainly a thing to remember.

I had met some young guys who attend a small church that they are very involved in and being that I've missed about 6 Sunday services on this trip, I was ready to catch up. The service that afternoon was not that exceptional or remarkable except to find out that this small church very strongly believes in a predestination of God's elect. What this means is that God has already chosen those who will see Heaven and those condemned to Hell, thus (they believe) Christ did not die for the sins of all mankind. but only of those whom God had already chosen. And this is very far from the truth.

The exceptional thing was how it came to be that everyone there treated me cautiously as if I were insane. And if I were in there shoes, I might have done the same.

Part way through the service, God decided to use my mouth for His purpose. I don't know how to describe the experience entirely except to say that I could feel the words rising within me. As they did, I tried as best I could to ignore them and especially ignore what I knew God was asking me to do with them. But the more I pressed them away, the more God intended to make it clear. My body began to shake outside of my control, and my heart began to pound at incredible rates increasing to a point that I nearly felt that I would go into cardiac arrest or lose the ability to breathe if I did not speak out. I can finally understand what the prophet meant when he said the words are burning within him. God was not going to let me out of this one. So just as they were beginning a communion service, I shouted the words God had burned in my heart;

"Why have you forgotten my spirit? Your hearts are full of pride! Your hearts are full of pride!"

Immediately, a man grabbed my shoulders and silenced me. And as I stayed there on my knees still shaking and very much in the presence of the Holy Spirit, the man sat next to me, one hand pressed on my shoulder to quell any other potential outbursts.

I have never spoken prophetically before and to be honest, I am still a little shaken from the whole experience. On one hand I am so excited that God would use me in that way, and in incredible awe at the whole experience. On the other hand, I would have wished for kinder words to speak.

I really like to have people like me, and this proclamation warred with my flesh on that very battleground. But I have been truly desiring a heart that seeks God's glory before my own and if there was any glory to be had in that moment, it was certainly not mine.

Later, I was given a stern talking to as I was told of my pride that required repentance. I was told strongly that the Gospel I believed was false, as was my Jesus, and the words that I spoke. Altogether, I didn't make any friends.

But let it be known, that Jesus, my savior, died for all men, that all may come to know Him, and that all who believe will find salvation!!!


I am staying in Gettysburg for a while, despite the awquard prospect of meeting my new non-friends around town. I am very glad to have stumbled into this community, and I want to be able to experience all that they are about.

Please feel free to e-mail me as I will have a consistent internet connection for the time that I am here, and I would LOVE to hear from you all.

And that is all for tonight.

Much Love!

Christopher Andrew.

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

30 Days in One Long Evening

Surprise! Much to the relief of all you die hard fans out there, I'm back to posting much sooner than expected. If there are any of you who took bets on how long I would truly last in the wilderness, the sceptics who put money on one night are now much richer than before.

Just for a moment, I am going to open up the pages of my journal of private postings so that you can experience the great theological ramblings and discoveries made during my time in the Appalachians.

Take a moment to prepare yourselves for the depths of thought to be achieved.

Sunday July 22nd

"This sucks! Holy Crap this sucks! Time is moving slower than anything and I have nothing to pass the time with! And everything is amplified by the fact that I haven't smoked, I have no smokes and I really want to smoke!!

I've told God that I don't think I can handle this; and I don't. And asked him to give me a clear sign tonight or I am out tomorrow morning. I already planned an escape route.

AHHHHHHH!

I set up camp around 3 o'clock and by 6 o'clock I was considering packing up and leaving as I still am right now, but it is too late already; maybe it's 7 o'clock. I have hours left of daylight and I can hear the bass music of some bar and it's driving me nuts!

How do people honestly do this!? I hate being alone unless I'm in a crowd of people.

My biggest hope right now is that He will not give me a sign tonight and I will be able to leave."

END JOURNAL ENTRY.

Not exactly what I was hoping for.

But what was I seeking? What did I truly want out of my time on the trail? To sit with Jesus around a campfire and sing Kum bah yah with Him (that would be ironic,) or have some great revelation of wisdom that I could share as a blessing to others? Those may be part of my intentions.

But as I reflect, I can tell you that the greatest desire that inspired the 30 day time frame was birthed out of pride and vanity; not so pure hearted as I hoped.

I wanted to be 'that guy.' You know, the cowboy, the mountain man, a Sasquatch. Whatever 'he' is, I wanted to be it. I had an image of a man who is completely secure in who he is wandering the wilderness with his scruffy beard and branch torn jeans completely at peace with nature and his inner something or other. And that was the greater impetus, to add that character to my image.

I am positive that God lead me into the trail. There was something that he wanted me to experience. I had prayed early on that God would break my pride. And continue to keep me in check as my heart would rather make this trip more and more about me. And as I write this post, I am humbled.

You'll note from the date that I have put off writing this for a few days and honestly considered holding off for the remaining 27 then subsequently postdating all of my later posts accordingly. But here I am, admitting to you all; I am no Sasquatch or great revelatory prophet. I am just a sinner, bumbling around the country trying to figure out how to walk.

Since my escape from the wilderness, I have been staying in Gettysburg, where I was immediately taken in by a very kind retired professor. He has been more than hospitable, and as he says, glad for the adventure of hosting me.

I have met so many people here and really had a wonderful time; and yes brother, I did see the battlefields, and even the museum. God willing, I will stay a couple more days before moving on to the rest of my journey as I come nearer and nearer the goal.

I love you all!!

Christopher Andrew.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

It's Your Turn

Well friends, this is the beginning of the second phase in this grand experience. I am writing this post from Chanbersburg, a short distance from the Appalachian Trail. I will stay one more night here as I camp on the lawn of a local business owner, and tomorrow will find me in the mountains.

God has led me not to walk the trail, but merely hike in for a day and set up a camp that will be my home for thirty days. I am truly excited and mortified at the prospect of seclusion. I would like to think that I will experience a time like that in Dances with Wolves, yet I know myself when I am alone and I am scared to face it.

I have high hopes that I will be able to send letters through passing hikers so as to keep you all invoved in my experience, but I am not sure how probable that is. So as of now, I have a challenge for all of you in this time.

I am sure that some of you have felt a tugging on your hearts, a challenge or conviction either in these recent months or the last few years. God is most definately moving in this time in very exciting ways and He is looking for a people who say "Here I am Lord. Send me." For some the challenge may be an entire lifestyle change, for others it may be simply befriending a neighbor; and both big and small adventures like these are just as important in the Kingdom of God. And the time is now.

Now I leave the posting up to you. I want you all to post your stories of whatever God is leading in your life in the comments section of this post, not only for me, but for all of the others following this site. Encourage each other with your stories of faith and ways that God is moving in our midst. Every story is important and can encourage in so many ways. I hope that in some small way God has increased all of your faith as He has increased mine through His guidance and provision on my journey thus far. He is sufficient and will be with you in whatever he is calling you to.

If I am not able to post, remember that this journey is not over, and God-wiling, I will be back online in 31 days. But please continue to check this site for the stories of your brothers and sisters which I very much look forward to reading when I can.

I love you all! Remember that God is bigger than our wildest dreams! And with that I leave you for a time.

Christopher Andrew.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

My Ligonier Brutha

Not long after the last post, I was sitting on the porch of the bed and breakfast simply because I had exhausted all of the options in town before noon. So I laid in the sun for a spell before I sought out the shade of the porch to spend some time in prayer.

During this short respite I began to feel God's leading that I should go into town to meet someone. I sat with this for a moment before I asked Him, "Where?" When I got no response, I simply made a list of places in my head and told God that I would go down the list and if the place is closed I will move on.

It didn't take me long to realize that these small town businesses have a 5 o'clock curfew, and I was 30 minutes late. So I wandered through town passing the library many times, and each time I noticed the young man sitting on the bench outside.

After my fourth pass, I decided to sit down and was immediately drawn into conversation. This young man had a peace about him, like a stillness that I could barely describe. It didn't take me long to realize that at his ripe young age of 26, he had experienced much of life.

After talking a while and expressing my lack of, well, anything to occupy my time, he offered to take me to the state park for a hike. And since hiking is something I do so rarely (sarcasm) I was glad to go.

The scene was incredible! Lush forests surrounding a clear stream were framed with high rolling hills. We found a swimming hole, and after gauging the temperature and weighing it against carpe diem, we dove right in.

He offered a place to stay for a second night in Ligonier and gave me something else to look forward to.

I stayed true to the lawn of the B&B and spent a lovely night in my tent, all the while anticipating what deliciousness would be waiting for me in the morning. And it was all that I imagined.

I especially loved her heart as she made the meal. While I, being a good mid-westerner, asked if there was anything I could do to help, she immediately told me to sit down and relax and all would be ready shortly.

I spent the rest of the day much like the one before, doing very little. Though I did walk to the grociery store to pick up some 'on the road' delicacies (peanut butter and bagels). And conveniently, I ran into my new friend there.

We had an amazing time at his secluded little cabin. After a great meal, a bonfire, and a firfly light show, he even humored me with a tune on his banjo. All this time was accompanied by such great conversation where everything was purposeful and laden with meaning. As he would say, "The time was magical."

I was floored by the simplicity of his existance (literally, I slept on the floor.) A table was the only funiture he had. And on that table there were painting supplies to add to the ongoing mural of his bathroom walls; which I did.

I was sad to part ways this morning, but to you my new friend, "Wow Brutha, it was wild".

Today, I found the mountains. Three miles into my hike today, I suddnely began going uphill quite rapidly then continued to do so for nearly two hours. I had stumbled upon a six mile hill, on which my ears popped twice from the change in elevation. I was amazed and completely out of breath when I reached the sign that said "Summit, Elevation: 2,684 ft.

I stepped into a bar to regain my center of balance and eat a peanut butter bagel, when the owner offered a meal on the house. And when funds are low, those are welcome words. I proceeded to eat a 9 inch tall bacon cheesburger with the paramedics on speed-dial (that's a bit exaggerated, but it was huge!). And the man next to me offered to drive me down the mountain.

After my ride and some historical lessons along the way, I had a ten mile jaunt into Bedford.

Finding Church doors locked, I walked into a Christian coffee house with the name HeBrews. Clever huh? Anyways, I talked with the lovely barista for a while and asked if she had any suggestions. She sweetly told me that they currently have three houseguests but she would check with her husbad to add one more.

I love the graciousness of this household.

Well that's a long enough post.... Being concise was never a strongpoint.

Christopher Andrew.

Monday, July 16, 2007

A Taste of the Wild.

Well the concert in Pittsburgh was the highlight of my time there. The venue, an abandoned Catholic church that had been renovated into a bar, made for a great concert space. Aside from the odd moral dilemma of drinking and dancing taking place in a building that once frowned upon that behavior, I was very impressed.

In the morning, the young man that I had stayed with took me to the edge of town and back to my faithful route 30. Though the intersection of his route with the highway that was so clearly marked on the map, neglected to say that the road we were on crossed nearly 40 feet beneath the highway that I needed.

Seeing another intersection marked, I kept on walking hoping that the two would cross on the same elevation. My hopes were dashed as I came to a tunnel with my desired route still 30 feet up an incredibly steep incline. With no other option in sight, I trudged up the thorn covered hill and nearly spent all of my energy for the day.

One short break later, catching my breath and looking for all the scratches left by some mean foliage, and I was on the way.

I passed through several small towns with very little break in between and had very little thoughts of anyone picking me up. My experiences with the traffic in PA thus far has been borderline hostile. I wonder what inspires young men to roll down their windows and scream just as they pass. I'm sure it gets a good laugh to see me nearly jump out of my skin, but when walking that close to traffic, autonomic behaviors such as the knee-jerk reaction are not entirely welcome.

But many miles down the road, a young man shouted from stopped traffic at an intersection and I had a ride.

I was especially glad for this blessing being that 30 turned into a freeway (i.e. no pedestrians allowed) with no alternate route for several miles. So this young upstart real estate agent brought me passed all that deciding several times to keep going beyond where he planned to drop me off.

Soon after we were passed Greensburg, He remembered a place from his young life in this area that would be perfect for the night. There is a point where 30 splits into two one-way roads and down the center runs a beautiful quiet stream. One of the crossing points had always been a favorite with locals for hosting bonfires and wading in the stream with beer in hand (which I did, sans beer). And nestled here in between the highway and some majestic wooded foothills was a campsite.

The locals had simply built up this small patch of land very naturally over the years. There was a bench and fire ring made out of flat river stones and a clearing surrounded by the tallest maples I've ever seen. I can only imaging that this is just a glimmer of what the Appalachians will be.

My new real estate friend left me there but not for long. Only an hour or so later, he returned with his fiancee and a couple friends to join me at my quiet little fire. I was so glad for the company in this wilderness location as spending nights alone is still one of my biggest struggles.

They left me just after dark and I took some quiet time by the fire as I listened to the stream nearby to journal a while before bed.

This morning I woke up to one of the most amazing sites. Just looking down the river and seeing fog roll up and over the hills with the sun barely burning through and that was the view I had for quite some time as I headed down the road.

I only walked five or six miles today through some of the most incredible scenery thus far. The road was still very close to the stream and the hills all around were more lush than I could've imagined. The first town that I came to was Ligonier.

The people here were immediately friendly and several greeted me even before I said hello! That's actually very rare. Part way through town, a woman seated on the porch of her bed and breakfast shouted good morning and immediately I felt as though I were a friend. We talked a while and she pointed me to a great breakfast joint.

Not long after I sat down, the waitress called me by name, but the funny thing is that I hadn't told her my name. She told me that the woman from the bed and breakfast had called to put my meal on her tab! And I hadn't even told her of my lack of resources!

So I had a hearty breakfast and a great chat and semi-devotional with my waitress. When all was over, I went back to the B&B with thanks and an offering of half of a great pastry (that she had paid for).

She is on the list of one of the most intentionally kind people I have met so far, and tonight I will be camping on the lawn behind her quaint cottage B&B.

So far, I absolutely love this town. It is obviously a tourist location but they have maintained the feel of a small town community even though many people are just passing through.

When I leave here, the walking will be slightly more labor intensive as here is where foothills become mountainous, but I welcome the change in scenery as much as this kind locale.

Much love,

Christopher Andrew.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

From Buckeye to Steeler

I made a few calls before one of my new Beaver Falls friends drove me to the big city. I tried to connect with a ministry or a church to find a place to stay in Pittsburgh so I wasn't left in the lurch (no idea what that actually means.) I was looking forward to this city and I didn't simply want to pass through in search of a friendly lawn.

The calls I made were fruitless, none of those that I connected with were able to put me up. So into the city we go.

We arrived at around 10:30 am, giving me confidence that I had time to get out of Pittsburgh if I needed to. I wandered a pretty cool district of town trying to meet the locals. After coffee and a short conversation, I headed towards downtown seeking a bed. I talked with a few people who were involved with Christian organizations and the consensus every time was to point me to the homeless shelter.

For the record, I am not above staying in a homeless shelter, but I considered it a last resort.

I stopped into a church where the receptionist directed me to someone else, who directed me to another who was out for lunch. It was a lively game of pass the vagrant. I waited for my next contact but I had a sense of the coldness in this building and as I was tossed around like a hot potato, I was loosing confidence in their hospitality.

When we finally met, I explained my situation along with the premise and some stories from my trip. I asked her if there was anyone who would be willing to take me in or let me camp on a lawn and this is how the conversation went.

Her: "We don't have anything set up for that."

My Inner Monologue: "What needs to be set up?"

Me: "I'm not looking for a program that you've set up, just wondering if anyone you know could put me up for the night."

Her: "Yeah, I'm sorry, there are some shelters for addicts, but we really don't have anything set up for that."

My Inner Monologue: "Who is this 'we' you keep talking about? I'm talking to you, you know, sister in Christ?"

Me: "I don't need a program, I just need some lawn space or a futon. Do you know anyone with a couch?"

Her: "No"

Inner Monologue: "Liar." And Or, "What kind of strange couchless world have I stepped into!?"

I proceeded to quote a section of Matthew 25, "I was hungry and YOU fed me, I was naked and YOU clothed me; I was a stranger and YOU TOOK ME IN." (though slightly more congienially than the capitol letters imply).

There was the impass; and I left.

I wandered downtown looking for another church with open doors, and to be honest, I was a little riled up from my last encounter, and looking for a fight.

The next open door had locked offices, but downstairs was a hot dog shop and cafe. I walked in and asked if there was any church staff in the building only to find out later that this cafe was barely affiliated with the gorgeous old world church above them, but connected with another ministry entirely.

After talking with the young owner, she started making phone calls to her friends to find a place for me to crash. And soon a young man came in that was more than willing to let me sleep on his floor. Soon enough, he and I were touring around town as he showed me the local sites and dropped into some great coffee houses.

I absolutely love this city! Asthetically, I have been amazed by every bit of old world architecture from the grand cathedrals to ivory covered abandoned factories and some boarded up homes, not to mention the Andy Warhol Museum with a Kieth Harring exhibit! So often I have wished for a camera or sufficient painting supplies to capture it in one fashion or another.

The communities and neighborhoods are all very vibrant and full of life as locals crowd sidewalks and shout greetings across the streets. And there is something that I can't quite put my finger on, but feels like an air of change or simply just a great potential, but for what I don't know.

We joined a party that was a collection of Grove City Graduates (Oh yeah, Harmony, I'm thinking of you,) most of whom are members of a local band that is performing tonight; and how could I turn down a concert?

We'll be headed out soon for the show and as far as I know, I will be leaving tomorrow with such thankfulness to these 'city folk' who have taken me in.

I will post more when I can, but for now, I have to get ready for a show!!

I LOVE YOU ALL! And to all a good night!?

Christopher Andrew

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Sweet Home Pennsylvania

I have just crossed my fifth and final state border! I half expected a welcome party with a dancing color guard and a band playing fanfare in front of all the citizens of PA clapping as I passed. Kind of like the Saturn dealership, but way cooler. Okay, I didn't really imagine that but I thought that passing by the welcome sign would have at least inspired me to dance a jig, but I was tired, and it's really hard to do high kicks with a forty pound pack.

I left Salem and my free hotel room early yesterday morning to go into town for coffee. When I checked out of my hotel, there was a pound of fresh roasted coffee grounds waiting for me with an invitation to come by before I left. The owners had heard that I was sad to find their doors closed at 4:30 pm and were eager to make it up to me.

I returned the grounds knowing that there was no way that I could brew it, and left after my free drink and muffin.

Just as I left town and entered into the beginnings of some majestic foothills, it began to rain. I quickly threw on rain gear and covered anything in my pack that needed it then pressed on down the road.

The only major problem with walking in the rain is not getting wet from the outside, but the buildup of moisture inside my 'breathable' rain gear. Within 30 minutes, even I could tell that I reeked to high heaven, and I had just had such a nice shower.

Not far out of town, I walked into a local breakfast joint for some french toast. The locals were very friendly and immediately started to ask questions. Some other adventurers dining there started telling stories of their travels and the kindnesses that they had found on the road. All the while the waitress was trying to grasp the concept of a God who speaks... I love those moments.

The gentleman put some cash together to pay for my meal then offered me a five mile ride to the next town. I was hesitant given my hygienic state, but obliged all the same.

The rain wasn't eager to let up and some thunderstorms rolled nearby, but by late afternoon (and many, many miles of wet) the sky cleared up to a beautiful blue. And just in time for me to cross the line.

My welcome into PA was quiet and a little deserted being that there was no town for another 4 miles. My body was starting to give way and needed rest fairly often. Soon I found a small restaurant where I was glad to enjoy a bacon cheeseburger and stay off of my feet for a time. The patrons were quiet and kept to themselves; a stark difference from my breakfast experience but to be expected on most occasions.

The waitress pointed out that the next town (though it's not on the map) was Chippewa and only a few miles farther. So I put on my tourist cap (metaphorical) and went to check it out.

It was a small and quiet town with much more corporate businesses than I expected. I searched for a locals hangout with little luck. Just as I began to think that I should walk outside of town, I saw a church with cars in the parking lot.

Once inside, I was directed (by the barbershop quartet) to head outside to the field in search of the youth pastor. I went outside and looked for a large congregation of children and soon found the one in charge. The youth pastor quickly offered me a place to stay and some food from their little cafe of sorts. Once all of the details of my trip were sorted out, he asked a favor of me.

After the band had played two songs, this young pastor introduced me and handed over the microphone. I was so glad to share the details of my journey and tell these young ones how great our God is; not to mention, I absolutely love speaking!

God's timing is so fun.

Then there was volleyball madness.

The band members decided to give me a free tee-shirt which looks 'bad' (that means good) on me, and more than that, it was clean! So I wore it proudly after all was over as we went to meet those that I would be staying with.

We drove to Beaver Falls, the home of Geneva College. The young woman I was about to meet (ironically from southern MN) had attended Geneva and been upset by the disconnection between the community and these private school students. As her best resolution, she and a friend bought a house in the community with enough room to house several Geneva students and introduce them to the community of Beaver Falls. They have intentionally become friends with their neighbors and play games in the yard with the community kids. There is no real planning or organizing behind it, that's just part of who they are.

I was glad to stay the night, and will stay one more just to get to know a few people here before moving on toward the big city of Pittsburgh. I am both excited and scared about that prospect, but hopefully I will have a contact even before I arrive. That way I can see the city without the pressure of finding a spot to stay while I'm at it.

Thank you all so much for your comments! I love to hear from you and I hope that some day soon it will be in person!

Christopher Andrew

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Do I look Like a Cop?

Hello from Salem OH!

I'm writing now from the public library in downtown Salem only a couple blocks from my free hotel room!

I left Mansfield early Monday morning and started out again on the familiar route 30. About 6 miles out of town, a minivan stopped and offered a ride. He was a bricklayer and headed to pick up his crew before going to their job site in Akron. Now Akron is a good distance north of my plotted route, but still east of where I was. So I took the ride.

We picked up his crew, 6 men in all, making for a very packed minivan experience. The only thing these men said to me was "do you 'smoke'?" (implying a different substance than tobacco.) I said no, and they passed a joint around the van.

I wandered through downtown Akron and found a coffee house to relax at. I had met someone in Madison Wi, a young hippie college student, who lived a short distance from Akron. She had told me to call if I was close so that I could stay at their cabin in South Benton. I was very much looking forward to a cabin on a lake and a very relaxing day until I called; then called again, and again; finding that her cell phone was turned off.

So here I was in a very large city with no place to stay and a flaky contact. What else could I do but head out of town.

I wandered down city streets eventually finding a route out of the city and toward a state park (camping sounded nice). Eleven miles later, I find that there is no campground. It's amazing how much longer a day seems when you're frustrated.

So I wandered a bit more finding none willing to stop, until I pulled off for water. I stopped in a small community to hydrate and the man whose driveway I walked in, jumped in his car and offered a ride instead. He told me that he had seen me earlier and really felt like he was supposed to pick me up but ignored the sensation. Though when I pulled in his driveway, he could see the obvious providence. I told him my story and we had a great conversation about the bigness of our God.

After the five mile ride, I was in Atwater Center, home of two restaurants, a gas station, and a beautiful little church. I sat at the diner for a while to rest my feet, and as I started to walk out of town, I heard the church bell and saw cars in the parking lot. So I sauntered over to take a look.

The pastor offered the church lawn as my post for the night and I was very glad to take it, regardless of it's proximity to the cemetery. I set up camp and took a shower from their hose.

After their meeting, they brought me snacks and another gentleman offered me 20$. I was very glad to accept them. I love seeing God's people taking care of the needy (i.e. me:)

Just after sunset, I went to one of the restaurants for a little snack. The kitchen was closed but the waitress offered to serve me anyways, and extended the same offer to three young men at the counter. The guys joined me at my table and as they started to ask questions, one of them was particularly fascinated. They offered a futon for the night, and although my tent was already set up, I could not turn them down. so I joined them and the rest of the party at their house.

The oddest thing about this experience was that some of them were strangely suspicious of me. At one point, I was almost driven back to my tent because some of them were uncomfortable thinking that I was an undercover cop (there was some 'smoking' there as well.) After the 'Paranoid Petes' left the house, I was allowed to resume my spot on the futon.

This morning, my ride back to the tent didn't wake up until noon; so I had a bit of a late start.

I walked most of the way today, finding that this road is not a great one for rides nor for walking; tiny shoulders all over again. But about five miles from Salem, a repair van pulled over. Oddly enough, he was the same man that I had asked a question of in Akron the day before. He was on his way home and offered a ride into town.

On the way in, he made a couple calls to find out where I could stay. He perked up after a short conversation with his pastor, and I relaxed a bit knowing that it was taken care of. Apparently, all of the church's here sponsor a program through the local police department to put up anyone walking through town. The officers gave me a voucher and I was directed to my own hotel room!

It feels so strange to be alone and not in a tent. And it's great to have my own bathroom and shower! I'd love to stay around another day, but the voucher is only good for one night.

This has been a particularily difficult couple of days. I am not worried about provision or God's mighty hand of direction, but there is an entirely different aspect my relationship with Him that I still feel like I'm missing. He has most definitely proven His power and grand authority in his orchestrating of my travels, and I have been amazed by that; however, on another level, I need to know that He is close; that he is intimate. Currently it almost feels as if God has been my corporate sponsor, planning my trip from his corner office far far away. And lately I have really desired to know what his friendship is like. To be honest, if I had to chose, I would opt for one moment of true intimacy with Him than all the free meals in the world. I know it's there, and I know that He wants it too.

This may be the reason that he is leading the second phase of this journey. I have told you that I am looking forward to the Appalachian Trail, and I truly feel like God is leading me to experience it; but not to walk, just to sit. I don't know how much time I will have before winter once I reach the trail, but I plan on taking all the time that I can to be with him in the mountains.

This will be a challenge given my very extroverted nature, and I know that I will have to wrestle with myself more than I would like, but what better time than now. I want to walk freely, and if I have to face all the darkness in my head to do that, Bring It On!

Sunday, July 8, 2007

I Love Free Meals

Well folks, a couple days later and a few more miles down the road and I'm in Mansfield Oh; halfway across this lovely state. I am so excited as I start to see the scenery change from the endless miles of corn and more corn to a few rolling hills just hinting at the Appalatians to come.

My new family back in Van Wert brought me down the road to the town of Bluffton Oh, which consists of a truck stop and a, well, another truck stop. I headed down new Highway 30, and finding it to be a very busy 4 lane highway, I realized that it was a very slim chance that anyone would stop for me (realization: the faster we're going the less likely we'll stop.) I had a late start and after nearly 5 days off of my feet, I only made it 7 miles before stopping into a church with loud music blaring.

The youth pastor and his merry band were practicing for their upcoming high school retreat. I asked if he knew of a place that I could stay and after a couple failed concepts, he brought me to his grandfather-in-law's farm.

It was nearly dark already so I simply set up camp and went to sleep.

In the morning, I started out again on Hwy. 30 but this was the old 30. All the traffic from the busy four lane was diverted onto this 2 lane death trap for construction purposes. The 2 foot shoulder was hardly enough of a buffer between me and the thousands of semi trucks that dominated the road. And naturally, no one stopped.

About 14-15 miles later, I found the only business/restaraunt/anything around and I rested over lunch through the heat of the day only to set out again with 13 miles to the next town.

I got a short ride from another kind officer just several miles out of Upper Sandusky and welcomed the back seat of a squad car once again.

Once downtown, within minutes, I was offered a free meal at A.J.'s Heavenly Pizza. The owner made sure that I had my fill then tried to find a place for me to stay. With little luck on that front, I headed to the Library to check a couple things before they shut the doors. And who would have guessed it; those librarians found me a spot for the night.

I camped in the backyard of a retired couple who are helping out a family member and staying in her home because of her health. Normally this very vibrant couple is out on the road in the RV that is their home and has been for many years.

We went out for malts and had great stories to swap and being that conversation is one of my most desired commodoties, I was so very blessed.

I set camp on their lawn and eagerly awaited the breakfast they had offered in the morning.

After breakfast (fabulous pancakes) and a short sit at the coffee house, I was out again and looking for old 30. I followed all the signs and everything seemed to make sense untill I ended up on another 4 lane madhouse. I wasn't about to backtrack so I just kept pressing on down the new 30 again.

I had just read in Matthew where Jesus says to his diciples that if they had the slightest faith and did not doubt, they would receive anything they ask for in prayer. Experiment time: I asked God for a ride, knowing the slim chance on this type of road, then did the best I could not to doubt it. I even made up a song about how my ride was-a-comin. Four minutes later, I was picked up by a kindly woman and her daughter headed to a baby shower here in Mansfield.

Before the night was over, they had brought me to McDonnald's, found me a place to stay, (with the couple having the baby) treated me and the couple to pizza, and rented a movie that we could all watch together.

It's fascinating how normal this is all beginning to feel. It's almost hard for me to remember all the exciting things that God has done because it's beginning to seem common. Now, somehow, I never want to loose the excitement to see God provide, and the joy at it's happenning, but I am rather glad that moments like that have lost the element of surprise. I have come to simply expect God to do exactly what He said He would, and that is to be expected. I know that it will take different shapes every day and sometimes it's later than I would like, but His provision will be there. And even if there is a night where I have to wander the streets till sunrise, I know that He has a plan in it all (though I'm sure that I wouldn't be all that happy about it.)

Response to inquisitive poster:

Someone posted a question (somehow under my own name) asking how I introduce myself to people. Well, most the time it sounds like "Hi, I'm Chris." Very rarely does the conversation end there in light of the huge backpack that is permanently attatched to me. When they ask where I'm headed, I tell them exactly that. For the most part, I have held off mentioning the fact that I left without money, food, or cell phone, unless the topic comes up or they ask for for stories from my trip.
Why would I hold that back? Simply because I don't want to feel like I am manipulating anyone into providing. If I did that, it would be entirely to easy for me to rationalize this entire experience and say that my charm (or lack there of) saved me instead of God.

Right now, I am staying another night here in Mansfield, though I am getting increasingly excited about getting to the Appalation Trail. My qualms about taking rides has fallen by the wayside, and I'm looking forward to getting to the mountains as fast as I can. So I will soon be off again, and headed toward Canton to stay the night with someone that I met while passing through Madison what feels like ages ago.

Thank you all for your prayers and posts. I hope to see everyone soon!

Christopher Andrew.

Thursday, July 5, 2007

Loosing Ground and Loving It

So I'm back in Van Wert......

When I left this town, I had the hardest time walking away from this new community that I'd found. The family that I had stayed with told me that if I wasn't too far away by Wednesday, that I could give them a call and they would pick me up for their 4th of July party. My prayer on the road was to find a place to camp in the next town of Delfos (only 15 miles down the road) so that I could make it back for the party, and if that was not the case, that I would be able to see these people again soon.

I made it into Delphos at 11 am to wander the town looking for some lunch. The first place to open up was a bar called Johnny A's. I started talking with Stacy, the owner/bartender. She was a very sweet woman with a personality well suited for leadership. She reminded me a little of Reba McIntire, accent and all.

Stacy was so excited to hear all the details of my trip and brought her young daughter over to hear my tale as well. She assured me that I would have a place to camp on her boyfriend's lawn and refused to let me pay for my meal.

At the suggestion of another waitress (Thoma (sp?)), she called the editor of the Delphos Herald and within the hour, I was interviewing for a story in the local paper. I will post the link for the story as soon as I get it.

I spent the day with Stacy and Kieth seeing all that Delphos had to offer. There was a celebration in the park with a band playing my favorite covers, rides, and carnival games. Later, we went to a party hosted by a friend of theirs.

I was already tired by this point, and felt a little out of place among all of these old friends, so before the party moved on to Johnny A's, I went to my tent to turn in. It was a rather lonely night, but I was confident that I would see my friends in Van Wert the next day.

In the morning, I was up and packed before Kieth made an appearance, so I took off to find breakfast.

I found a place named Jim's, a quaint Midwestern breakfast joint with a German theme. After sitting for an hour or so, I packed up to leave. As I picked up my pack, the owner asked where I was headed. When I told her my destination, she immediately picked up the tab. Two free meals in Delphos.

I called my friends in Van Wert right after and waited at the gas station for a ride. I was so glad to come back to this place and to see all of my new friends (and my new adopted Ohioan family).

I had a great time at the party. Great food, hours of volleyball, and a great 'legal' fireworks display. Everyone was glad to see me again and several are convinced that I'll never be able to leave. Part of me agrees. But I will be off again today and on down the road towards Lima.

I am looking forward to the rest of the trip, though it will be hard walking away from Van Wert a second time. Though this already feels like the last leg of my journey and I'm not ready for it to be over yet. But I can rest in that I still have two states left and they're the longest ones yet; not to mention that I hope do take some time on the Appalachian Trail.

There is so much left to experience, and I still don't know what to expect except to be confident that provision will be there.

Thanks Sooo much Van Wert!! I hope to see you all again soon!!

Christopher Andrew.

Monday, July 2, 2007

Patriot for Now

From the Library in Decatur In, I decided to walk on a little ways and see where the road brought me. The next town was Van Wert Ohio at over thirty miles away, but I figured that I could walk for a few more hours before camping for the night.

With so many hours of daylight, I walked several miles before getting a short ride that brought me 6 miles outside of Van Wert. So I headed for town.

Four miles outside of town, an old fifteen passenger van pulled over and offered a lift. His occupation: chauffeur to the Amish. This young man brought me into town and dropped me off at a church that his father-in-law would be attending for a recovery program in less than an hour all the while assuring me that he would offer me a place to stay.

I wandered in to town a while thinking the recovery group may not be the best bet for a camping spot. After dinner, and attending a party in the park talking to everyone I could, I left discouraged with no offers on the table and headed back to the church for help. I attended the group and was immediately welcomed; I was amazed by the kindness and openness of these people. They were not hesitant at the site of a vagrant and were quick to make me feel like part of the family.

After group, one of the leaders offered a place to stay; not on his lawn, but in his house with his family. Turns out that this man is the father in law of my Amish employed friend from before.

I have been here three nights.

I was planning on leaving the next morning but there church bible study had an event that I just couldn't pass up.

"Chicken Pickin"

Midwest Experience #2 (the first being the lactating goat)

Chicken pickin is the process from live chicken to frozen meat; oh yea, the whole process. This includes the chase, the makeshift guillotine, boiling, plucking, cleaning, and butchering, and with forty chickens to be 'taken care of' I was able to experience every bit of the process. Now, for someone who has been vegetarian for a year up until this trip, I must stay, I handled it like a champ. At least that's what I let everyone believe, (no one could tell that I was holding down a breakfast I didn't even eat.)

I stuck around for church yesterday; both morning and night service. And by this point, everyone in the church knows my name or at least that I'm "that walking guy" and I'm so blessed to be a part of their fellowship for even this short while.

After night service was a mad dash to a town called Defiance (it's actually called defiance, and so is it's college) for an amazing fireworks display, the whole family in tow. The crowd was full of oo's and aw's and bursting with patriotism. I have always loved to see entire communities gathering for this occasion. This is the one time every year that strangers, friends, neighbors, and bitter enemies celebrate one common theme together. No other holiday can claim that.

I am not a patriot.

Not that I'm anti-American, in fact I am very proud of the ideals that this country was founded on, "give me your tired, you hungry, your oppressed, etc." But in the midst of trying to kick out immigrants and the presence of our own tired, hungry, and oppressed, I just don't see it anymore. Not to mention my lack of enthusiasm about a war being pawned off as God's justice instead of our own greed. I'm just not about to sing the praises of this country or pledge myself as anything but Christian. I'm not a crazy extremist liberal or anything, it just doesn't make sense to me. One thing is true though, if all American experience was like this weekend, I would be the loudest of patriots.

I have been completely amazed at how very welcoming this family has been to me. Not only was I invited to spend the night, but encouraged to stay several days. Regardless of their busy household (their collegiate son and teenaged brother along with three grandchildren) they have certainly made me feel right at home. It's almost a strange thought to leave them tomorrow as it seems I've been here for much longer. They have truly blessed me.

I will be back on the road tomorrow morning looking forward to the next point of God's providence. It's all up to Him.

Christopher Andrew.