A lesser known path

I don’t know what made me go this way, I never take this path. Ask anyone who knows me, I’m a creature of habit. In fact, it wouldn’t be hard to assassinate me, if someone wanted too. I don’t know why they would, I am just saying it wouldn’t be hard.

But, back to this unplanned detour.

The day started normal, six a.m. wake up, shave, shower, dress in my Thursday outfit. One cup of black coffee, a bowl of oatmeal generously sprinkled with blueberries, and off for my morning stroll to work. I walk of course, driving has to many potential variables that may hinder my morning commute. You know, accidents, road construction, stray animals veering onto the road, carjackings, the typical madness associated with driving a vehicle.

I always walk through the park, following the main path, it's the most direct route. For some inexplicable reason, today I went right, following a lesser-known trail which loops around the lake, still in the park but definitely not a direct route. Instead of arriving to work in exactly twenty-three minutes I now have no idea what time I will show up.

Madness.

Fall was in its prime, the crisp, clean air reminds me of camping, or what I imagine camping would be like. I personally have never been and think it is a barbaric ritual. Who in their right mind wants to lay on the cold damp ground stuffed into a puffy zip up blanket? Falsely believing that a nylon barrier has magical powers to stop a cantankerous bear or possessed owl from tearing through and devouring the poor soul who foolishly believes they're safe. Yes, I said owl, can you really trust an animal that is able to spin it's head around, like it’s auditioning for the exorcist. Especially when there is a perfectly good bed to snuggle in, under a solid roof. Also, why would I want to poop in the woods, we have indoor plumbing people.

Anyway, for no particular reason I took a different route today. It is now 7:21 a.m. and the world is unusually quiet, I find it interesting not seeing the same faces I normally pass on my way to work. In fact there is no one, only me on this path. Sounds of my footsteps crackling on dead leaves echo off the majestic trees. A mist hovering over still waters, splits open and swirls as two ducks land upon the clear sheet of liquid beauty. My eyes automatically squint as the morning sun peaks between half barren branches, lighting the foliage that covers the forest floor with a golden halo. The cries of busy birds feasting on the last of the shriveled berries before the onslaught of winter snows begin to fly, is music to my ears.

I must say this enigmatic action of mine is a little exhilarating. Living on the edge like a nomad.

So lost in thought and mesmerized by this wonder that has awakened my senses, I fail to hear the sound of running feet behind me. The blow from behind knocks the air out of me. I find myself falling, my legs buckle, I barely manage to brace for impact while dozens of tiny lights fill my vision as I tumble downward. There is a hard crunch as my face smashes into the unforgiving ground. I lay there, unmoving, the musty smell of moss, leaves and dirt fill my lungs. A metallic taste coats my mouth, realizing I must have bit my tongue.

Soon mumbled voices mix with the ringing in my ears, the feel of hands roughly molesting my prone body send my muscles into tiny spasms. This was it; my life was over. Realization that I never really lived, hits me harder than any cowardly attack from behind. I should have done more with my life. I should have tried new things. I should have eaten pasta on a Tuesday, instead of Friday. Crazy I know, heavy carbs midweek, that’s insane. But when you come face to face with death these are the thoughts that flash in one’s head.

I am too young, well not really, but still to young to pass from this life and slip into the endless night of permanent sleep. A clear vision appears before me, highlighting tomorrows news headline… 'Mutilated body discovered in woods, near a seldom used path along the lake. He should have known better.’

With what will probably be my last breath, I cry out. “Why, oh why…”

”Hey, buddy you ok?”

I feel myself lifted from a prone position to once more stand on my own. A voice crackles the morning air like the leaves beneath my feet.

“Dude, I am so sorry, I didn’t see you there. I jog here everyday and rarely come across anyone.”

"Whaa?"

The voice continues to babble. "I mean, I ran around the bend, and you were just standing there. You good?"

Opening my eyes, my vision clears, I am facing a young man in his prime. With extraordinary effort I find my voice. “Ah Yeah, I’m fine.”

”You sure?”

Brushing the dirt off, I begin to smile then laugh, thinking to myself. ‘Am I fine? Hell yes, I am more than fine, I’m alive, a survivor.’ Things are going to change. I have a new lease on life. The dawn of a new me emerges, brighter than any day has ever shone. It’s time to take risks and explore the world. Tomorrow, I’m having strawberries with my oatmeal.

This popped into my head while munching on toast and drinking my morning coffee, wishing I would have made oatmeal for breakfast.

Thank you,

Jason

Here is a continuing story of our hero ( of sorts). Another day in the life of an ordinary event gone a stray. I hope you enjoy it.