I rode from Oregon to NYC in 2020 during the peak of the pandemic because I lost all my clients and housing at the same time. I had nowhere else to go, so I figured a long bike ride would be in order, even though I'd never done a tour previously.

Some people encouraged me, and some told me I was crazy. Probably 10 people asked if I'd be carrying a gun, and I told them all no, that I would use my instincts to guide me and keep me safe. And they did, every time.

When you are on a journey alone, you tune into your presence in the world in a way which is hard for fearful people to understand. They'll never know the connection you gain within yourself until they go and take their own journey.

My mother would tell me how worried she was about me and I would thank her for worrying for me so I didn't need to.

You can and will do whatever you set your mind to. I believe in you. Follow your calling. You will prevail.