So many of us put up barriers to strangers, and most of the time we should. How is anyone to know whether or not they are running into an ax murderer? (Just make sure they are empty handed and without pocket ;))Today I went on a hike alone. I do not recommended it to all, but for those brave enough and familiar with trails it is a great way to go. Once reaching my final hiking destination, the lake, and lying out for a while on a bench and then on a vertical cement wall that led into the water, a few hikers and bike riders passed by, all saying hello in a friendly manner, and then one man called for my attention. Normally, I would have been reluctant to answer, but I spoke with him. He was a marathon swimmer and wanted me to keep and eye out so he made it to the end and back safely. When he came ashore we spoke some more, shook hands, he complimented me on my hair, and then we parted ways.
Prior to descending an older gentleman approached me and asked if I ran the rails. I replied that I didn't and he took that as an invitation to walk back down the hill with me. I was worried at first, but he seemed kind enough. As we walked down he spoke to me about how he was an architect, who had attended UC Berkley, and told me a few stories about friends, life, and career. He took about 4 years at a Junior College and a year off before going to Berkley and just sort of "fell in" to architecture.
While he was speaking he seemed not only patient, but wise. We both acknowledged how fearful people are today of accepting life as it comes and adjusting ( I have this problem too, or I did at least.) This reassured me that stress, when it comes to my education, is unnecessary and that I should take it slowly. Prior, I had rushed so quickly towards my passions that I ignored my inner peace.
Once I broke my barriers, today on my hike and in life, patience and wisdom have blown in freely; from strangers especially. If you ask me, a stranger is the best because they do not know you and have seen so many different things. Sometimes it is good to push your walls down, and at other times to keep them up, but don't be afraid to let the world see you and to look back at it with no expectation.Next time you are brave enough to wander the world alone, be kind, be open, be safe, gain wisdom, and don't forget to Winc. ;)
