Distracted Hiking

I trudge up the trail, inhale crisp spring air, admire deep green fields below. I feel the crunch of gravel under my feet, hear the squawk of a blue jay. How amazing to be alive!

I’m also amazed at how many fellow hikers wear headphones or earbuds and spend their hike in conversation with someone invisible to me, someone not here!

On my descent, a teenage boy passes, eyes down, glued in admiration . . . to his iPhone!

Near the base, I meet up with Jeff. He hikes here nearly every day, usually by himself. Everyone knows him; he calls each by name. I’m pleased he remembers mine.

He reminds me to accept the choices made by others – everything from the redesign of Hayward Field (for the next generation) to my recent choice to continue hiking alone. You’re an athlete, he says. You need to set your own pace.

Yes! Keep my focus on my experience: this morning, this day, this life!

Thanks, Jeff.