On the Road Again

Cross and Passion College Students

I have returned to Ireland to resume my trek. On Tuesday, I was welcomed back to Kilcullen by a group of enthusiastic students from Cross and Passion College, who had also greeted me during my initial visit last May. Before beginning my journey anew, I had a productive meeting with Deputy Martin Heydon, during which I was pleased to learn that my meeting with Minister Simon Coveney would be scheduled sooner than expected.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my friends from Newbridge: Noel, Michael, Susan, and John, who tirelessly worked towards drawing attention to my mission. Their unwavering support has been invaluable, and I will miss them as I continue my journey towards Cork.

As I hit the road again, I feel a sense of joy and contentment. The road ahead may be long and winding, but I'm thrilled to be back on the road, taking the next step in achieving my goals.

Oh, water, clear and cool, A precious gem, our greatest jewel, Flows freely every day, But we take it for granted in every way.

Only when the well runs dry, Do we see the truth with our own eye, Without this liquid gold, Our fate would be bleak and cold.

We must not wait to appreciate, The value of this life-giving resource, Cherish each drop, every splash, And ensure our water supply doesn't crash.

Let's take action to preserve and conserve, This gift of life that we deserve, For water is a treasure to hold, And without it, our story will remain untold.

Together for a Cause: Delivering a Crucial Message

On a bright and sunny Friday morning, we embarked on a journey from Newbridge to Kilcullen, Ireland. But it wasn't just any ordinary walk. It was a mission to deliver a crucial letter to Deputy Martin Heydon, with hopes that it would reach the hands of Simon Coveney, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. What was this letter about, you ask? It was about advocating for clean water and promoting the Sustainable Development Goals.

What made this journey truly special was the people involved. Along the way, newfound friends from both communities joined forces, bringing their passion and energy to the cause. It was a beautiful sight to see everyone working together towards a common goal.

As we made our way towards our destination, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the angels who made it all possible. These generous and kind-hearted individuals provided support every step of the way, both literally and figuratively.

And when we finally reached our destination, we were warmly welcomed by Cross and Passion College students and staff, and had the opportunity to meet Deputy Martin Heydon, and hand him a letter to deliver to Simon Coveney. Afterwards, local musician Peter Moliney played some Irish and American music on the church organ and then we ended with tea and biscuits at the Kilcullen Heritage Centre. The warm reception was a testament to the importance of the cause and the impact it could have on everyone's lives.

To all those involved, a heartfelt thank you. You are the best, and your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Here's to hoping that the letter will reach its intended recipient and make a real difference in the world.

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One Step at a Time: Walking Around the World to Make a Difference

I began this journey with a mission to make a positive impact on the lives of the most vulnerable, those with no control over their circumstances. This has been one of the most challenging experiences I've faced. At times, I feel uncertain and doubtful, but I refuse to give up. My fears and insecurities will not hold me back from doing what is right.

Although there was someone who expressed doubt towards the impact and interest of what I am doing, I know that, at least hope, that I am making a difference. I am taking steps towards a better world, a world where everyone has access to basic necessities and a chance to live a healthy and happy life.

When I recall the faces of the people I have met along the way, the ones who have no access to clean water or sanitation, the ones who suffer every day just to survive, I remember why I started this journey. Their smiles, gratitude, and hope drive me to continue.

Even if my efforts have a small impact, it's still worth it. Every step I take is contributing to a better world, towards a world where everyone has an equal opportunity to live a better life.

To anyone who may doubt my ability to make a difference, I say this: I am doing something. I refuse to let anyone's doubt hold me back from achieving my goals. I will keep walking, keep spreading awareness, and keep fighting for a better world. Even when it feels like the odds are against me, I will keep going.

If you're working towards a goal or dream, don't let anyone make you feel like what you're doing isn't important. You are making a difference, every action and every word you speak is sending ripples out into the world, and they are being felt even if you never see it.

Believe in yourself and your purpose, and don't let anyone dim your light. Your efforts are valuable, and you are capable of achieving great things. Keep pushing forward, trust that your hard work and dedication will pay off, and remember that every step you take is contributing to a better world, and that alone is worth celebrating.

Why walk for water?

I embarked on this journey to walk around the world because the water crisis is a global emergency that demands action. It breaks my heart to think that almost one billion people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water, which is a fundamental human right. Women and children walk up to 20 miles every day, spending 125 million hours collecting water for their families. This is a burden no one should have to bear.

I was inspired to take action when I witnessed the devastating impact of the water crisis on local communities during a visit to Nicaragua in 2015. I saw women gathered by a polluted river, scrubbing laundry on rocks upstream from where another woman was collecting drinking water. Across the river, a line of cattle gathered along the bank to quench their thirst, leaving the shoreline muddy with manure and urine, further polluting the water and filling the air with an unpleasant odor. The sight left me feeling overwhelmed with emotion. It was a stark reminder that the contaminated water likely caused their families' illnesses, but the women had no other option.

Every step I take is for the men, women, and children who walk for water. Providing everyone with access to safe drinking water would not only improve their health but also allow children, especially girls, to return to school. We can all make a difference by taking action. Consider donating to an organization that provides clean drinking water or advocating for policies that address this global issue. Together, we can make a significant impact and bring hope to those who need it most.