21 Nov A Decade of Perseverance. 10 Year Anniversary Walk Across Japan

A Decade of Perseverance. 10 Year Anniversary Walk Across Japan

The Spirit of the Walk

Ten years have passed since a journey of epic proportions was etched into the fabric of humanitarian history. Enson Inoue, Roman Dela Cruz, and Mike Fowler set out on a mission that was more than a walk—it was a voyage across Japan that bound the steps of the travelers to the heartbeats of those they aimed to help. Today, Roman and Enson reflect on the monumental walk, a passage that transcended physical endurance to become a symbol of unyielding human spirit and community resilience.

Lessons in Resilience

Roman, humbled by the experience, speaks of the indomitable will of the Japanese people, their legendary resolve shaped by the country’s spirit—Yamato Damashii. This ethos, he learned, is not only about standing tall against adversity but also about the personal growth that blooms from the soil of hardship. Meanwhile, Enson’s reflections reaffirm his martial arts tenet: the essence of fighting spirit lies in facing each step, no matter how daunting, with steadfast determination—a philosophy that proved vital during their arduous journey.

Encounters That Moved Mountains

Their path was lined with trials, from the daunting slopes of Mt. Hakone to the historical echoes of Sekigahara, each step a story of struggle and triumph. For Roman, the challenge was personal and transformative, a testament to human endurance. Enson recalls an encounter that touched the core of their mission—a man so moved by their undertaking that he questioned their reality, his tears a mirror to the worth of their suffering and a reminder of the impact of their efforts.

Continuing the Mission

As time marches on, so does the commitment of these two men. Enson’s relentless support through the Enson Inoue Foundation has materialized in over 63 missions, a beacon of hope that shines undiminished. Roman, though not physically present on these missions, remains connected in spirit, ready to serve should the call come again. Both men carry the torch of advocacy, with Roman advocating for growth and readiness for service, and Enson’s continuous acts of kindness, from providing shoes to orphans to maintaining connections with those met along the way.

Enduring Impact and Future Horizons

As they look towards the future, their endeavors grow with them. Enson’s upcoming pilgrimage signifies not just a journey across sacred grounds but also a recommitment to the cause, a reaffirmation of the walk’s enduring legacy. Roman’s insights offer guidance to those who wish to tread a similar path, emphasizing the need for physical capability, mental fortitude, and a soul driven by purpose.

The Walk Lives On

A Promise of Solidarity

The 10-year anniversary of the walk across Japan is not merely a milestone—it’s a continuation of a narrative that began with each step taken by Enson, Roman, and Mike. Their shared experience, punctuated by personal battles and communal ties, echoes a powerful message: the journey may end, but the mission forges ahead, bound by the promise of solidarity and endurance—a promise that guides their paths and inspires many to follow.