NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — 100 miles down and more than 900 to go for Terry Willis, as he makes a stop in Nashville before continuing his long journey to Minneapolis.
Willis knew that if he wanted to get the attention of people unwilling to listen, he would have to do something incredible they couldn’t ignore.
“When I first thought about it, I dismissed it almost immediately,” said Willis.
The more Willis entertained the idea, the more he realized the idea wasn’t going away any time soon. Rather than chart out a course, before stepping out the front door, Willis just walked.
“I know now, just like I knew then, that it’s something I needed to do,” said Willis.
He began Tuesday morning from his home in Huntsville, Alabama, before reaching Nashville the next day.
We tracked Willis down to a street just outside of downtown, from his Facebook Live feed, which you can watch here.
What we didn’t realize and what Willis would soon find out is that so many others in Nashville were watching too.
“It’s a beautiful thing. This is absolutely amazing. I can’t believe this is all happening, but I’m glad it’s happening,” said Willis.
By the time Willis made it downtown, several people had stopped to offer water, donations or even just words of encouragement.
Near the footsteps of the historic courthouse building, Willis took a much needed break. Surrounded by supporters who before today, had no idea who he was or what he was trying to accomplish.
Willis says he’s on his way to Clarksville next, before heading even further north.
He plans to walk during the day and rest at hotels in the evening. His hope is to make it to Minnesota over the weekend.
