Freedom Paradox of Hikers

The online version of the Roanoke (Va.) Times of 14 July 2007 has Liza Field's article/column titled "How do you define freedom?" which she begins with this illustration"

"Each summer, the "through hikers" on the Appalachian Trail strike me afresh with the paradox of a human life. They are the picture of burdened hardship, sweat-crusted, knee-braced, strapped into ponderous packs.

"Yet, in their chosen difficulty and bondage, they are somehow free."

That's all there is about the Appalachian Trail in it. But she does also have some interesting thoughts about dragging lots of extra baggage along through life.