“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph of it.” ⁣– Nelson Mandela⁣

I have heard from some people that they think I have no fear because I solo travel. ⁣

Trust me. I have all the fear. ⁣

In late October, I had this incredible hike- the colors were stunning, it was next to a waterfall and along a river and to top it off I was in a tank top. I was feeling all the freedom feels. It was a beautiful day. ⁣

After a while, I had to pee. (Like ya do) Typically, McDonald’s is my “go-to” place. I think it stems from when my kids were babies. You could always count on Micky D’s to have a sufficient diaper changing station. ⁣

I was somewhere in mid-upstate-New York. Looking for a rest stop- but one just didn’t seem to come along. After a while, I really need to take a potty break. ⁣

I decided no matter what to pull off at the next exit. I drove through a small town and come across a gas station. ⁣

Me, I’m in my typical uniform…all black. I walk in, nod at a couple playing checkers at the front booth, and walk over to the front desk. I ask if they have a restroom and was promptly handed a long stick with a key attached. The young clerk says “’round back”. ⁣

I’m sure she elaborated (because I have no control over what I’m thinking via my facial expression…) ”Yes…Yes”- she said, “you go outside and ‘round the back.” ⁣

Talk about fear. Dude, it reminded me of where Jason should live. And I hate horror films. But, I have to pee. ⁣

I walk “’round” back. My head shaking as I think of what these next few minutes could bring me. Within moments, I come to find the cleanest, nicest restroom on my entire trip. ⁣

With that, I went to return the key and promptly purchase way too much water and beef jerky because I felt so bad about my judgment. ⁣

Those are the moments that keep me traveling. The new experiences that take me out of my comfort zone. Feeling the feels- and doing it anyway. ⁣

12.4.20