A Different Journey
Those of you following my trip from the map link might have noticed it hasn't updated in over a week now. That's because the Florida Trail journey has ended, most likely for the duration of the hiking season. It's time to be off trail and with family. I wrote the following on the flight back from Florida. Partly for me and partly for my sister, spawned because she didn't want me to end my hike.
A love letter to my sister:
You came first, October 1959; I was second. Two more followed, four kids in all. Now, looking back as an adult, I wish we were easier kids for mom. But that's a different story; this one's for you.
I'm told you often took my toys away when I was little. But I'm smiling and happy in all the pictures I see of myself as a toddler. It must have been okay; you were my big sister.
In middle school you became a cheerleader. I was in awe; you were my big sister.
In high school you became a beautiful young woman, got good grades, and hung out with a cool crowd. I bragged you were my big sister.
Off to college and your own apartment. I hoped I could do that too someday; be like my big sister.
You got the first new car, a blue Celica, I think. I hoped I would do that too someday; be like my big sister.
You got married to a man I admired and had two wonderful kids. I had two also; we made sure they got many opportunities to know each other over the years. You were my big sister, and their auntie.
Years have turned into decades, and somehow, suddenly, decades have turned back into weeks. Now the once unlimited time we always thought we had is running short.
So I come your way, and soon will be by your side. My next footsteps will be with you. Because you are, and will always be, my big sister.
