Road Companions

During a college geology road trip we hiked through the forest on a cool spring day. The type of day where the ground is saturated from the recently melted snow. I must have been walking too close to the trail edge because the dirt gave way and I slid butte first down the ravine to land at the creek bed. I was still really shy and was mortified while the whole group looked down and laughed as I tried to climb back up. I just kept sliding back down. The soil was clay; and there was no way I was getting back up. With a laugh the instructor said I could just follow along at the bottom because eventually their hill would converge at the creek. I swallowed my pride and started walking. A few seconds later I turned to see someone sliding down my same downhill path. Some curly haired guy stood there with a smile asking if I needed company. Clay covered angel.

So I survived my downhill slide this week. I felt lighter after releasing pent-up demons. Secrets are like that - they tend to weigh more in the dark. But although I wasn't looking for pity or responses I have to say I was humbled by your words. Just like the guy who came to walk by my side when I fell. Thank you all - you are companions along this crazy journey. In a strange way I am thankful for my past. It's made me who I am and who I've yet to become.

So I'm not afraid of downhill slides anymore. They may hurt my pride a bit but I come out stronger in the end; albeit a bit bruised and dirty.

Thank you