I paused often, not just for physical rest but for spiritual contemplation. The beauty of the mosque with its elegant minarets and green dome, the sight of pilgrims from every nation walking together in peace, the call to prayer echoing across the city – all of these reminded me that my walking challenge is itself a gift from Allah, a sign of health and ability that should never be taken for granted.

Reaching 48% of my challenge in Madinah feels deeply appropriate. In Islam, the pilgrimage (Hajj and Umrah) involves significant walking – circling the Kaaba, traversing between Safa and Marwa, and walking through the plains of Arafat. Muslims have always been walkers, journeying for faith, for trade, for knowledge, for community.

The 3,767 miles I've walked so far pale in comparison to the spiritual journeys Muslims have undertaken throughout history. Yet each step is an act of gratitude for the health Allah has granted me, an opportunity to reflect on His creation, and a form of moving meditation on the blessings in my life.