Bill Richter - A True Trail Friend
I can't remember exactly which day I met Bill, it may have been my first back on Trail. I know we crossed paths several times, but it wasn't until Marana Village that I had some extensive interaction; for the trail that could be anything from more than a hello to an all night conversation. Bill was in the group that I hiked out with. He helped me up after my first fall along the highway, with real concern in his voice for how I was. He wasn't there for my second fall, but right there again for my third. Again, he was there with words of encouragement, something I'm a bit loathe to accept, as I believe that it is within my will to persevere in the face of adversity.
I believe Bill thinks this too, because I wasn't the only injured warrior on the trail. Bill had blisters on his feet that would have stopped me cold. He treated them daily, removing loose skin, drying the wounds with alcohol, and taping them to protect them. But I could tell they hurt. He walked quite slowly and on his heels for a few days. During that time we hiked fairly close together. By the time they were healed I couldn't keep up with his pace. Bills blisters and how he reacted is the definition of perseverance.
For the last few days we've been camping together and swapping stories. Yesterday, when Bill learned that I was unsuccessful finding contact solution he offered me his. As Bill went off trail today to return to real life he left me with a gift of his contact solution and a kind note.
Bill, you're on my list. And it's the good list! Thanks, buddy.
Here's a couple of shots of Bill.
Always a smile!
Hikingsolo (aka Allen)
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