Wild

"How wild it was, to let it be"

I'm just about finished with my most recent book, Wild by Cheryl Strayed and it's unlike any book I've read before. It's the true story of Cheryl Strayed, who after losing her mother to cancer and divorcing her husband makes the decision to hike the entire Pacific Crest Trail alone. Cheryl's journey allows her to rediscover herself on the 2,663 mile hike and properly mourn the loss of her mother, which had basically crippled her. This book is incredibly honest, digging into the most basic of emotions: survival. As I read, I am amazing by Cheryl's bravery and it really got me thinking about my life and whether I could ever do something as crazy as hike the PCT.

My first thoughts while reading this book is, "you go girl!" because honestly the idea of hiking anything (let alone 2,663 miles of trails) is terrifying to me. I probably would be left for dead after mile 4. There are so many instances where something goes wrong in the book and Cheryl is alone and must figure it out so she can carry on. There's really no help for her if something went wrong because she was by herself, no cell phone and no way to get in contact with anyone. My heart constantly aches for Cheryl because I honestly cannot imagine the loss she feels, similar to myself, she was incredibly close to her mother and this book is a loving tribute to their relationship. Yet, it's clear that Cheryl begins to heal the closer she gets to the end of the trail and despite the emotional ups and downs, I'm finding the book uplifting. 

It has definitely inspired me even more to try new things out of my comfort zone and incorporate more adventure into my life. I know that I'm guilty of being a homebody and someone that sticks to a routine, but I've been trying to make an active change and try new things. I think it would be amazing to one day visit the trail that Cheryl once hiked because from what she describes of it, it sounds beautiful. I may not be able to hike the trail, but it would be nice to experience the positive energy the PCT seems to give to all those who visit it.  

Do you think you could successfully complete a hike on the PCT?

**Side note: I have only one more book to read before I complete my 24 book goal, any recommendations for me?**

xoxo