One of the main messages of 1900 Footprints is my belief that we should all slow our lives down a little, take away the distractions and connect with nature at a deeper level.
So why then would I post all over social media platforms on such a frequent basis?
The truth is, were this not an awareness and fundraising exercise, I would probably leave all the tech at home. Don’t get me wrong, I have really been enjoying the photography and writing (much to my surprise!), but they are very large distractions from being present while on the journey. For instance, quite often I will be enjoying a moment, a place, or an interaction with someone I’ve met when a thought pops into my head: “I must capture this to share it with everyone else”. Or, some days after setting up camp I have wanted to explore before dark but put it aside to complete my daily log or contact someone along the journey instead. At times like these I might prefer to just enjoy being where I am rather than engaging with the technology I have brought along. These devices, which facilitate convenience in our metropolitan daily lives, pose problems when trying to connect with mother nature. Along the way I have been constantly asking myself things like “how am I going to keep my devices charged? Will I have reception when I reach camp tonight? Do I need to stop in town along the way to charge things and use the internet?”
Despite this, there is no escaping the fact that having the technology allows me to be much more visual and engaging in the ways I document the journey, which is absolutely critical in helping spread the word as far and wide as possible. These past 10 days or so I have been away from technology and will probably be again for another 10 days or so. The physical and mental challenge during this time will be immense: extremely rugged and wet country, not knowing where my water is coming from and being in isolation for probably the longest time I have ever experienced. However, I am also looking forward to the opportunity to live the simplest part of the journey, not worrying about technology, and connecting with myself and my surroundings.
I’ll let you know how it goes when I come out on the other side. And while I’ve got your attention, please share 1900 Footprints as much as you can! We need to continue the momentum of donations until we reach our goal at the end!
Much love,
Tristan
