“People all over the world, join hands, on a love train, love train. . .”
That song from the ’70s rang in my head as I was preparing to write about an inspiring adventurer I know.
Arie Moyal.
Think one person can’t make a difference? Think again.
One person with a vision, who takes action, can create momentum, accomplish their goal and be rewarded to boot!
That’s Arie!
The 29-year-old is a self-proclaimed citizen of the world. He has lived in Canada, Israel, Australia, Thailand, the United States, and is already planning his next move — to London! The successful entrepreneur came up with a way to see the United States and help people along the way!
He is on the HugTrainUSA, spreading holiday cheer and raising awareness about mental health one hug at a time!
What’s that all about? Arie boarded a train at Penn Station on December 27 and has been riding around the country these dozen days with a blue Santa cap on, giving hugs and raising money for Mental Health America. How cool is THAT?
He has been sending twitter updates so people will know when his stops are so they can come out to get a hug and donate. Did I mention, he is funding the trip himself? Another cool thing 
A couple of days ago, he came through my state of Alabama, actually stopped in Birmingham. I was unable to meet the train, but Arie gave me a quick phone call and an update on his trek across the country.
To say he was enthusiastic is an understatement! He was having the time of his life!
During our brief conversation, I heard of the beautiful scenery he had seen. Cold and bustling Chicago, snowy Utah, massive Rocky Mountains, beautiful Reno, a very big Texas, and a southern flavor that can only be found in New Orleans!
He told of the interesting and caring people he had met. They ranged from the funny to the inquisitve to the very generous. Some thought he was strange with the blue Santa hat (did I mention it had sequins?) and others warmed up, opened their hearts and their pockets, when they learned what he was trying to accomplish.
I also heard tales of a dining car losing a wheel, unscheduled delays, and playing games in the dark using the lights from ipods to see!
He is one inspiring guy!
Making a difference.
By using all the elements: vision, action, momentum, and goal achievement.
His rewards? You’d have to ask him. But, from the enthusiasm in his voice as he described the incredible journey, my guess would be that the rewards will keep coming for years on end.
Hugs,
-Martha
p.s. You can follow Arie on twitter (@amoyal) and also learn more about his hugging journey at HugTrain.org
