Day 29-Boston-by David Lalo

At 10:45 this morning, we arrived at Walden Pond, home to the revolutionary thoughts of Henry David Thoreau. There, by exploring specific quotes he authored and explaining their significance, we saw how the thoughts of this one individual inspired people and changed the world. We shed light on those he inspired, like Gandhi, and, in turn, Martin Luther King Jr. – a connection we made on the first day of the trip.

We then made our way to Harvard Square, a quaint spot, typical of the Boston experience, where we had lunch.

Subsequently, we made our way to United for a Fair Economy, a group dedicated to the promotion of awareness and change in terms of America’s and the world’s ever-increasing gap in income and class inequality. The statistics they presented were startling enough to shake some of us and make us feel the pressing need to involve ourselves in such an issue, but they left others with philosophical doubts on the value of work and who deserves money. It was an enthralling dialogue that was impactful to both supporters and those who disagreed.

At the completion of our session, we departed to the Boston Commons, from which we commenced on a walk along the Freedom Trail. The theme of this tour was expressed by Billy, who along the way explained how this city, and this trail, exemplified how an idea can be taken to action. Our stops included the Park Street Church, the first ever outspoken abolitionist church, as well as the Granary Burying Ground, which held the tombs of multiple founding fathers. Another sight was the Corner Bookstore, where Emerson, Hawthorne and Dickens would meet and Thoreau published Walden. At the site of the Boston massacre, we learned that although it was a big deal at the time, it played out as a spark to revolution but was not the direct cause. Finally, we made it to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, where we ate dinner to end our long but exciting day.

Boston was wonderful!