I met Josh in Oracle when we both stayed at Ann’s place. (Ann is a fantastic trail angel.) Josh has the trail name of Aladdin. Josh and I had dinner, a couple of beers, and breakfast the following day. We hiked together for several days along the AZT. Josh was faster than me, but I held my own. Josh is an ultrarunner, a triple crowner, and a fantastic person. We talked about hiking, books, F1, age, politics, long-distance trails, and other hikers.
I initially lost Josh when I stayed in Superior, but we ran into each other again near the Grand Canyon as I was supplying some trail magic for Jada and Spoons and created two water caches. He hikes his hike and is friendly, non-judgmental, intelligent, and funny. He told me my generation needs to die out because we have created so many problems and few solutions. I couldn’t agree with him more. Thankfully, Josh didn’t include me in the die-off!
Josh taught me how to ascend and descend better and put things behind me, giving me examples through his experiences. He emphasizes the simple things in life and appreciates them. For instance, he would always find a shooting star on clear nights before falling asleep. I am forever grateful for his companionship and advice.
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