A Path Older Than Memory – A Conversation with Paul Salopek
Jan 14, 2025
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Join journalist Paul Salopek on his profound journey retracing early human migration from Africa to South America. He shares awe-inspiring experiences of 'sacramental time,' emphasizing how walking fosters deep connections to nature and self. Salopek contrasts the tranquil rhythms of rural life with the frantic pace of urban living, urging us to reflect on our environment. He explores the wisdom of traditional practices, such as tree root bridges in India, and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in our fast-paced world.
Paul Salopek's journey retracing early human migration emphasizes the profound connection between walking and immersive storytelling of diverse cultures.
The concept of 'sacramental time' highlights a shift from mechanized time to an organic experience of time, fostering deeper awareness of life's interconnectedness.
Deep dives
The Journey of Retracing Ancestry
A journalist has undertaken a monumental journey retracing the migration paths of early humans from Africa to Chile, covering approximately 24,000 miles on foot. This unique undertaking, referred to as 'slow storytelling,' allows for an immersive connection with the landscapes and people along the route. The deliberate pace of walking, at about three miles per hour, fosters a deeper understanding of the various cultures, geographies, and ecological conditions encountered. By walking, he captures stories that are often overlooked in traditional journalism, emphasizing the importance of individual narratives in understanding larger global issues.
The Transformative Power of Time
Walking has a profound impact on one's perception of time, particularly as it encourages a transition from mechanized time to what the journalist describes as 'sacramental time.' This notion refers to a more organic experience of time, where natural rhythms and connections with the environment become apparent, cultivating a meditative state of awareness. The act of walking allows him to experience moments of timelessness, in stark contrast to the fast-paced, urban life that often strips away these sensations. This shift enhances his storytelling, as it interlaces his experiences with reflections on the interconnectedness of life.
Awakening Longing and Connection
The journey evokes a deep sense of longing, stemming from not only personal reflections but also collective histories of marginalized communities encountered along the way. Engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds allows for a rich tapestry of stories that depict struggles for identity, belonging, and cultural heritage. This emotional engagement highlights the transient nature of life, encouraging the recognition and acceptance of mortality. The experience of walking fosters a inextricable bond between the self, others, and the landscapes traversed, awakening a profound connection to both nature and humanity.
Rediscovering Time through Walking Practices
Incorporating walking into daily routines can evoke a deeper awareness of the surrounding environment and the passage of time. Simple practices, such as taking walks during breaks or setting aside time for mindful strolling, can enhance well-being and promote a sense of connection with the world. Engaging in these micro-migrations allows individuals to peel away the distractions of modern life and attune themselves to the rhythms of nature. Such practices cultivate a restorative experience, reinforcing the benefits of walking as a tool for grounding oneself in the present moment.
This week, we return to our interview with journalist Paul Salopek, who, for the last decade, has been on an epic journey retracing the migration pathway of some of the earliest humans out of Africa’s Rift Valley. Moving through the world as our ancestors did, Paul shares how he’s become attuned to the way time passes through us and around us: from the ancient pulse of the Earth underfoot, to the fury of mechanized time that rampages through our urban centers. Throughout, he shares profound experiences of timelessness, which he dubs “sacramental time,” that bring together mind, body, and landscape in conversation.