I am really psyched about my first memorable encounter post
- because today I met a beautiful man on an exciting journey. Tony Roddy will
happily describe his Walk About America - his effort to raise funds for his
local Make-a-Wish foundation as he walks across the country. A war veteran and
faith filled man; he greets with warmth and really makes an effort to know the
name of each person he shares with.
Mr. Roddy – Tony – is a tall, lean gentleman sporting a
completely white beard that he shared was recently trimmed. His potentially
imposing stature is offset by his easy movements and personable ways. He began his
journey in Maine April 2 and left Peterborough, NH this morning headed towards
Keene. He is on a personal journey to make something of his retirement. He
wants to use each April birthday to make an improvement in this world. This –
his first effort – is a big one. Finding that walking helps him tremendously with
stresses as a veteran, Tony decided to take that self-therapy and apply it to
this endeavor.
The modified bicycle child trailer he has loaded with his gear
for the journey is a colorful testament to his will and nature. It is
exhausting just to imagine grasping the heavily padded handle and heading up
our New Hampshire hills. But Tony takes his time preparing for the day and is
underway with a great smile and a wake of support and awe behind him. Just our
brief conversation this morning has touched me deeply, and I know my prayers
will join many others in accompanying him along the road.
To read about his campaign, click here.
