I drove West until I reached the Pacific, met my dad for a squid sandwich at Point Loma and paddled out for a sunset surf before I continued North on the PCH in search of cooler temperatures and anything else Northern California nights had to offer. I didn’t have anywhere to be until July thirtieth, and better yet, it was just me, the west coast and the open road.
It had been awhile since I embarked on a solo journey though it’s something I’d been looking forward to. I always admired, so dearly, those with the courage to set sail on their own.
Despite traveling solo, I never felt alone. A few reasons being:
1) I always keep the spirit of others near. Whether it be carried through a piece of cloth around my neck, written in a letter, a memory in my mind or the simple blessing of life, I am unafraid of darkness, danger and any sadness that may linger.
2) The comfort of a stranger's company and conversation is enough.
3) Energy is also comfort. A couple of my resources while on the road included the natural landscape, music and the ocean.
My itinerary was short, and likely to change last minute. I was on my time, abiding by my rules, using my imagination, creating my adventures, searching for my happiness. My rest stops and photo-ops were unexpected. Wrong turns were intentional knowing I’d discover something or maybe nothing. Either way, I was in no hurry.
But this trip wasn’t all about me.
My journal entries typically consisted of three basic questions which I would then expand on.
1) Where I’d Gone
2) What I Did
3) Who I met
While the third was most rewarding, the first and second set me up for opportunities to meet crazy, weird, like-minded individuals. Upon arriving in town for the evening, I made every attempt to explore by foot, say hello to anyone I passed along the way, and engage in activity to be found. A day's success was often measured by how many people I met, the addresses I collected, and letters wrote & sent.
Top Conversation Starters
1) Say “Hello” (with a genuine smile)
2) Write a letter in public space. (older people enjoy witnessing a lost tradition being practiced by a young buck)
3) Wear neckerchiefs, fun colors, and headbands. It displays character, reflects creativity, and encourages conversation. Not to mention, you'll receive plenty of compliments. (though headbands proved to intimidate some)
The idea is to be friendly, fearless and fun. Much love and respect to older folks for their kind, warm-hearted, full-of-spirit smiles and willingness to initiate conversations.
I couldn’t imagine attempting the road trip this year given the social impacts due to covid-19. The feeling of being able to connect with others through personal encounters creates a sensation- a fulfillment- that cannot be replicated or supplemented by any form of technology or drug. While travel and adventure are still feasible for some during these times, many joyful pleasures that complete the overall experience have been eliminated altogether including friendly interactions and community gatherings. Needless to say, I’m glad I took advantage of the open roads and uncovered smiles when I did.
-Son of Mark
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