Funny what one remembers...Recently, a long ago walk through the woods I would customarily take to and from elementary school came up to greet me. I am now 65 so I lived in the era when kids were allowed to walk alone to school. Perhaps it was as dangerous back then, but there was less awareness around these things, so off we went; backpack secured and lunches prepared, not a care in the world!
I never felt in danger on these walks. Only part of the journey went through the woods. Probably, one of my brothers, the one about a year and a half older, accompanied me here and there. But, my memory has me alone. In my mind’s eye, I can see the tree branches creating ruts to be avoided so as not to trip and fall. I can see the path that led over train tracks and to the area of the road near the parochial school I attended.
These walks were largely pleasant. Again, I remember being alone except for one time my brother scurried up ahead. I didn’t necessarily want to walk with him. My own company was plenty.
In fact, this satisfied aloneness was emblematic of my younger years, and this trait has continued. I do love the company of others. I adore my children and I was in a marriage of long duration; for 25 years.
But, again, this aloneness is not a foreign capacity for this one. When I look back, I remember that sense of having come into this world alone and how natural it was to be fully in ones own presence.
I have no idea if this is a commonplace experience. I can only tell you mine.
Annie Kiyonaga
January 26, 2021
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