What does the Pilgrim Testimony Prize symbolize for you? « On the way » ?
I am very honored to have been chosen by your readers. The spirit of Pilgrim corresponds to the deep meaning of my book, since I recount a personal journey which is built one step after another. I am also very touched that this book speaks to all generations and not just young road trip enthusiasts. It was my grandfather Alban, in his eighties, who encouraged me to write it. My older readers feel like they are experiencing a vicarious journey that gives them faith in humanity.
What relationships do you have with your readers?
They write to me on social networks. I even received a phone call from an 86-year-old man: “Your work shocked me,” he told me, “I read it three times. » In a few months, I formed a bond of friendship with this very ill person, whose grandson is going through a difficult life journey. If my experience can help readers to marvel and find the path to hope on a daily basis, I am delighted!
In your story, you emphasize your inner journey.
Yes, because the journey to the gates of China that I recount is carried by a philosophical and spiritual quest. Caught in a whirlwind of life and meaningless overconsumption, I was suffocating. I needed freedom and to experience another relationship with time and people. I left alone, in a context which forces me to reach out to others, me, the introvert. By hitchhiking, sleeping in a tent or with a local. This journey revealed to me my deep desire to meet the other, this unknown. I bear witness to the goodness of the human beings I cross along my path.
Did you ever feel in danger during this trip?
It may seem unbelievable, but I was never the victim of violence during these 15,000 km. Turkish truckers, residents of Georgian cities or mountain dwellers from Tajikistan… I was surprised by the welcome of the people from whom I asked for help and who responded, unconditionally.
How do you explain it?
There is of course an element of luck. “Be careful in the next country, you will come across dangerous people,” some warned me. But, at each border crossing, I discovered kindness. Of course, doors remained closed, eyes filled with distrust, but I bear witness: the world is not as hostile as people say.
Did your poverty as a traveler contribute to this?
I did not in fact carry any external signs of wealth, but it was my traveler’s state of mind that guided me above all. When we are open to others, smiling and respectful, people tend to be friendly. I took care to avoid dangerous situations by remaining positive in all circumstances even when I was hungry, cold and exhausted. Being able to overcome annoyances and maintain this infectious joy of discovery is essential.
What has the publication of your story changed for you?
This story is a foundation on which I can lean. I try to rediscover the inner state I reached during the trip: a mixture of perseverance, listening to the world, gratitude and wonder. This allows me to feel aligned in all areas of my once again active and urban life.
Are you still a dynamic young executive?
I’m not quite the same anymore. I changed professional sectors. When you follow the right path, doors open… I now work in responsible tourism in order to change our relationship with travel: traveling less often and for longer, choosing alternatives to planes for short trips, and modes of transport that encourage meetings (walking, cycling, sailing). In short: view every trip as an adventure!
Belgium
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