I know that title does not make sense. Wandering is meandering is wondering is drifting is moving with the breeze. But to safely wander, I must plan. I wish I could just land in a country and lazily shuffle my feet along cobbles, concrete, and sand. With no concern of personal safety I would set out to view to listen to taste. Instead I have gone high-tech, it is either this or face the reality of a necessary bi-daily phone call home. I have chosen the former with a google calendar so all can track my every step [in Jesus’ mind you], but then, maybe that defeats part of the safety plan?
What will I find along my journey? What preconceived notions will be mistakenly packed along with my sleep sack and quick-dry panties? How do I hide issues of entitlement, judgment, and blond hair? Will it be possible to block the sounds of my unending thoughts so I may clearly hear the shofar or adhan – a call to turn attention to the Universe?
My gastro-intestinal system has been whacked out recently… how much worse an experience should I be ready for in mere weeks? Will I be too hot? Most are warning me of being too cold… but this is difficult to comprehend with it already 20F outside now.
Who will I meet? Will a path be made clear for me to accomplish idealistic notions of creating solidarity with feminists abroad? Do Aussie’s travel the M.E. with much frequency? [hoping not] How do I express gratitude of being allowed to temporarily exist in a significant part of the world without permitting myself to smile candidly when out and about? This is of great concern.
I have studied the planets of loneliness, but is this an adequate way to prepare? Web searches and far-flung emails have not reaped many leads. I am tempted to throw caution to the wind and just go, much as I did for Europe. But then, I had my share of difficulty and I’m not sure I am as open and interested in allowing public transportation to take me along the tracks to destination unknown. No, this will not do in such territory.
To prepare, to wander. I hope a soft heart and a mind of curiosity is itinerary enough.
Kymberly Dawn 