Isn't this dangerous? Will you be carrying a gun? What does your wife say? Won't your son miss you? Most reactions focused on the risk aspects of my journey. I undertake it for simple reasons: The trek represents a physical challenge and counterpoint to the softness of my everyday life in a smoothly functioning, predictable environment. I want to reflect on the past and the future. I want to grasp the width and the richness of the South African landscape and its wonderful people. I want to open my mind and sharpen my senses to a changing environment day and night. I want to experience hardship and the simple pleasure of drinking a sip of water. I want to see the star studded Karoo skies. I want to feel the searing pain of missing my wife and son and the joy of looking forward to holding them in my arms again.