Eric Sutton- Image and Pilgrimage #2

In chapter 5, the authors discuss distances of local and universal pilgrimages.  Thousands take pilgrimages each year, but it's interesting to think how far they travel to find what they are looking for.  While they are in search of meaning and purpose, it seems a little extreme to walk far distances to find meaning.  I understand that it's part of the process, but there's so much effort put into finding meaning.  Why does it take such long trips for people to find meaning?  It seems like there is something about these trips, both close in and far away that is necessary, but then I think whether it is necessary for everyone or not.  Does the distance define the purpose and the results they will achieve?  Can more meaning be found in a longer distance?