I have a great respect for through-hikers. They are an elite set of backpackers and have worked very hard to acomplish what they do. It is a lot more than atheticism- successful through-hiking takes a committment, excellent planning, mental toughness and the patience of Job going through some of the less spectacular stretches. I think there is a little envy when I hear others belittle their style. I do not have to be a through-hiker myself to really enjoy reading their journals. Keep up the good work!