Distance: 1,820 km
Current City: Phoenix
Yesterday, I reached the outskirts of Phoenix, where a kind and loving Indian family welcomed me with open arms. It took me 20 days to walk from San Diego to Phoenix — a challenging but rewarding stretch of my journey.
I want to express my deep gratitude to the Mohanji Foundation for their unwavering support. Mohanji is a spiritual leader from India whose teachings of kindness and compassion have touched lives around the world. I’ve been fortunate to meet Mohanji’s followers in Serbia, South Africa, North Macedonia, and now here in the USA. Every encounter with them has been filled with warmth and generosity. I am deeply thankful to Mohanji for inspiring such a compassionate global community and offer my heartfelt pranam to him. Special thanks to Vishwamitra Yogesh Bhai for connecting me with the Mohanji family and for his constant support.
Here in Phoenix, Dr. Namitha ji and her husband, both doctors serving in the city, have been taking care of me. After 20 days on the road, having a warm vegan meal and such kind hospitality feels like a blessing. Their care and generosity remind me of the beauty of human connection.
The Road from Bouse to Phoenix
The last five days have been incredibly tough. The desert heat has arrived suddenly, and my body is still adjusting. Carrying enough water in my trolley under such conditions has been difficult.
I started walking from Bouse on March 23 and covered 50 km to reach Salome, where I spent the night. That night, I struggled to find enough food as the shops were closed. The next day, I pushed on to Aguila, where I slept beside the fire station under the open sky.
Despite the harsh conditions, this journey continues to reveal the deep kindness that exists in the world. A few days ago, a woman stopped her car and offered me water, sharing a touching story. Five days earlier, she had seen me near Ehrenberg and had even gone to a shop to buy water for me — but when she returned, I was already gone. Yet, her intention stayed with her. Now, after five days, fate brought us together again. This time, she not only offered me water and fruits but also prayed for my journey. Her persistence and kindness are a powerful reminder that even when we don’t see the immediate impact of our actions, the goodness we put into the world has a way of finding its path back to us.
The desert landscape has been inspiring in its own quiet way. Under the scorching sun, the towering saguaro cactus— standing up to 50 feet tall — line the roadside like silent guardians of the desert. They’ve stood resilient for centuries, witnessing the ebb and flow of life. Their quiet strength reminds me of the power of patience and perseverance.
I’ll be staying in Phoenix until Sunday before continuing my journey toward Santa Fe, New Mexico. The road ahead will be long, but with the kindness and support I’ve received, I feel strengthened for the path ahead.
Gratitude 🙏
S Nitin