One Federal Way man is issuing a call to the masses to join him in walking to the middle of the nation.
Thomas Reardon is the founder of what he envisions as an opportunity for Americans to gather and celebrate humanity and, if they choose, faith.
The project, called A Cross Across America, is in its early stages but planned for 2010. An advisory board comprised of several local folks is in place.
Currently, six routes are planned: From San Diego, Miami and Corpus Christi, Texas; and Canadian start points in Vancouver, British Columbia; Winnipeg, Manitoba; and Quebec.
The routes will be completed in a relay form and on foot, ending in Nebraska. A torch or lantern will be carried on each trek. A seven-day celebration, including faith-based performers, will welcome participants as they reach their destination at varying times and days throughout the week.
“It’s a simple concept: Bringing people together for one single event,” Reardon said. “It’s like a musical festival.”
Taken alone, the idea may seem overwhelming.
Reardon is the first to admit it took him the better part of five years to realize he was meant to organize the get-together. When the words “A Cross Across America” came to Reardon, he was in no position to take them seriously, he said.
A long-awaited journey
Reardon, now a Christian, was struggling with life. He battled bad decisions and an overwhelming guilt that made him believe he did not deserve to turn his life around. Life-altering people were introduced to him, though, and he changed. As the transformation manifested, A Cross Across America began to seem more plausible.
“It’s a vision. It’s a big, big project, Reardon said. “I see it happening. I see it completed.”
When Reardon first introduced his idea Feb. 27 to community leaders, some were skeptical. Doug Johnson of Kent was one of those people. But as he listened, he became more convinced that A Cross Across America can be achieved.
“I know it’s something that can happen and something God wants to see happen,” Johnson said.
Changing a nation
Traveling is anticipated to take participants several months to complete, especially for the entire trip on routes such as that from Vancouver.
This time will allow the walkers to grow closer and unite, as is described in the Pledge of Allegiance: One nation under God, Reardon said.
Reardon envisions others will grow on their journey too. Working together toward a common goal can make the United States a better place, he said.
“This nation is so messed up,” he said. “We are in such a terrible place right now. It’s time to move out of your comfort zones and start doing what makes this country work again.”
Don’t sweat the details
Reardon initiated the project and now he will wait patiently, he said. Several resources, including route leaders, available land and safety precautions will be needed to ensure the relays are successful. A lot of work is to be done. There is no time to waste in planning the event.
“Up front we have to come to decisions very quickly and start working on priorities,” Johnson said. “We have no time to dilly-dally in this thing.”
When all is said and done, Reardon firmly believes the experience will be one remembered as significant. It will be something that defines Americans’ willingness to seek peace, work together and spread joy — despite whichever, if any, faith they claim.
“Basically, it’s like a giant revival,” Reardon said.
Learn more
To learn more about A Cross Across America visit the Web site www.acrossacrossamerica.org.
There will be an organizational meeting March 13. Call Thomas Reardon at (253) 344-7318.
