Although it may seem idyllic and liberating to quit a job, sling on a backpack, and leave all worries behind, my story was not quite that simple. The journey I undertook, the adventures I lived, and this book were all made possible by many wonderful people in my life.
My family has anchored me through the years. Mom and Dad have always given us a quiet Christian example. Although I joke about my many sisters, I would not want to give up any of them. My mother-in-law, who has traveled the path of grief many times herself, has a strong trust in God and a positive attitude that have been an inspiration to me.
My children not only lost Mom, but Dad was also unavailable for a season. Melissa and Tom, Rodrick and Jill, Kristin and Trevor, a great big thank-you for the things you did and sacrifices you made to make my hike possible.
Thanks to Dutchman Hospitality in Walnut Creek, Ohio, the parent company of my restaurant, and the owners who made it possible for me to spend all the time I needed with Mary during her illness and the last months of her life. Thanks also to my friends and co-workers at Dutch Valley in Sugarcreek, Ohio, for their support, not only during Mary’s illness, but for the seventeen years I managed the restaurant. Thank you to my co-worker and friend Ina for coordinating food drops, driving me to Springer Mountain, and picking me up at the end of the trail.
Elaine Starner organized my thoughts and ramblings and helped make possible my dream of a published book. Her insights and her belief that God spoke with me on the trail were much appreciated as this book took shape.
A special thanks to my editor Vicki Crumpton and the team at Revell for their dedication to publishing Hiking Through. God promised to get this book were He wanted it, and with your efforts that will now happen.
A special thank you to all my friends and hiking partners I met along the AT. It’s impossible to name everyone, but you are also family.
God was with me every step of the way, just as He had promised. I am humbled that He knows me well and still loves me.
Finally, to all my readers, thank you for reading this book. I am honored that you took the time to read my story. My prayer is that you have been blessed in some small way by the journey we’ve taken together. I would be delighted to hear your response to anything you’ve read in these pages. You may post your comments on my website at www.hikingthrough.com.
God bless you all.
Paul Stutzman