I think to myself how lucky I am to have all this freedom. I’m American, and as a woman, pretty much, I wouldn’t say entirely, I am treated with respect and given many of the same rights as men. I have no children and no husband. Not that that would restrict me by force, but by choice. If I had children and/or a husband, I would be much more reluctant to choose such endeavors as hiking long distance. Hell, if I had a dog, I might choose less. The training requires long hours, and I take obvious risks being a woman alone in the woods for months on end, not to mention walking alone in the dark in an urban environment. If I die, I die without responsibility to another. I die living, not in front of a television, behind a desk, or in a kitchen. Instead, I get the very awesome pleasure of feeling truly alive every day, goal in sight, ready to work, and work hard. Nothing beats it.
I used to think, poor me. I never settled down. I’m like an old maid. But reality is, this was by design. I have had many opportunities, but chose not to indulge. So far, I have no regrets. This life has too much to offer, too much to see, too much to do. As much as I wonder who will care for me in my elderly years, I don’t worry. Worry is useless. Preparation may be imperative, but I’m not stupid. There will be a time and a place for all that.
For now, I walk.
It’s almost 7AM. I’m in Lake Worth staying with my parents. Luckily for me they live near a bridge. I have to head home to Fort Myers earlier rather than later due to errands and making attempts to finalize preparations for the trip. My days off go by quickly, but I’m hoping to at least get in 10 miles this morning. Three weeks left before lift off.
It started raining as soon as I left the house this morning, but no thunder or lightening. So I proceeded out. Although my parents have a beautiful house in an awesome neighborhood, they do live considerably close to some sketchy areas and often you will find equally sketchy people wandering about early in the morning. Today was no different. Although, I say this probably being considered one of them by every passerby in a motor vehicle.
My friend Sammy said to me recently, “It’s hard being this crazy. Isn’t it?” I tend to agree. Getting up at 4AM sucks sometimes, but I’m still thinking very much worth it. Off to the races Baby!
