One of the TED talks that really affected me lately is called “I Walk The Earth”. John Francis is a truly unique man who went on a unique journey, He gave up motorised transport and stopped speaking, going silent for 17 years just to listen to the world and the people in it. During his monumental, silent trek, he earned an MA in environmental studies and a PhD in land resources. In that time of 20+ years he walked hundreds of miles and just stopped in places to teach in universities.

What’s inspirational about John is his gentleness, courage and his immense integrity. He wasn’t remotely concerned about the people who must have told him to get serious, find a job and settle into a 9to5 lifestyle. He went his own way. His character, integrity, inner peace and willingness to live differently for his own reasons make him a giant amongst men. Just as Ghandi walked the fields, John did the same and brought back an incredible message.

To you, his actions should be ridiculous and worthless because you think to be someone you have to have lots of money, a high-flying job, media/celebrity coverage and more. But John’s “waste of time” journey stands above us all.

More:
http://www.planetwalk.org/
http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=john+francis+planetwalker