You know that feeling when you have something in your heart that you can’t resolve or sort out? Or that morning when you just want a hug and someone to share thrilling news with? Friends (community) + Walking (movement) = A Powerful Force.

My 61-year-old body is different from my 35-year-old body. I never used to feel wobbly with heights, but I am now (despite the fact that I am getting my pilot’s license). Has my inner ear changed? My vision? Well, whatever it is, my new reality is such that a narrow path, a steep cliff to one side, and rumbly scree everywhere put doubt right in front of me on this day. Doubt is clever. Doubt can be convincing.

I was born with clubfoot, a condition that causes the foot to be turned inward and twisted. It is a common birth defect, affecting about 1 in 1,000 babies. I learned to walk with two casts on and a bar between the casts. I don’t remember any of it, but somehow, I think this experience may have pointed me towards my love and gratitude for walking.

Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, the pristine kingdom of Bhutan calls adventurers with its awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and red rice and chilies. During a recent trip to this enchanting country, my two dear friends and I embarked on an unforgettable journey.

As someone who has hiked over 26,000 miles over the course of 11 years, I can attest to the transformative power of walking. Walking, for me, is not just a physical act but a spiritual one. It’s a way to connect with nature, to challenge myself, and to find peace within myself.