July 17: Östersund to Rödön
Today’s Stats
Scary Bridges Crossed | 1
Kilometers Walked | 20
Total Kilometers Walked | 243
Highlights
Here are some random words of wisdom I’ve collected on this trip. You’re welcome.
“Like grief, physical pain is cumulative.” - This is the first one I wrote down and I didn’t attribute it. Please claim authorship if you were the person who said it.
“Stay away from the edge. Stay away from the edge. You could swim to shore if you fall or jump. It’s not that far. You’re not going to get run over. But you can jump if a car comes too close. Stay away from the edge.” - Me to myself when walking across that scary bridge. You know that thing where you think you might jump, like at a subway station when a train is coming? It’s not just me, right?
“They are loving us to death.” - Swedish quote told to me by one of my hosts re: folks who won’t sell their abandoned, empty country homes
“Only 330 kilometers left.” - Guy walking 5 dogs (on leashes!) in Rödön
“Norway?” “Yes” “Before Christmas!” - Another guy. Other dogs. Another day
“Most people just take a vacation.” - Wise, 22 year-old bartender number 3 in Östersund after asking why I was doing the pilgrimage



When you’re walking through a cow pasture, be careful of cows. Especially if there are baby cows. - Official Sign


“It is important to celebrate life.” - Norwegian woman biking the trail (Orange jacket)







It’s not just you
Words 💙