So much about western culture is about speed, about pushing through. Getting ahead. Being the best. Breaking records. Making it to the top. Getting there first.
Sod it.
I’ve got a first-class ticket to the back of the line, and that’s where you’ll find me. I’ll be the one hanging out on the little porch at the back of the caboose, dangling my bare feet over the edge, resting my arms on the low railing, taking in the wide, glorious receding view. Join me? Here, I’ve spread out a little picnic. Help yourself. We’ve got everything from carrot sticks and hummus to strawberry scones with butter. Take an embroidered cloth napkin and a chunky pottery plate. Lay down your burdens, pull up an all-cotton handmade cushion for your tush, sit here next to me, and let’s relax.
Now that we’re so far off the radar no one’s even looking for us, what do we do? Frankly, nothing much for about an hour. We watch the sky and the mesmerizing pattern of the railroad ties as they unfurl from beneath the back of the train. We take in the beauty and the fresh air (it’s a very long train), and the lightness. We take turns sighing with relief for another hour. Then we look at each other and giggle. We talk after a while, for a while. Our conversation winds, but we follow. The trees meet overhead, making a tunnel that takes our breath away and makes speaking superfluous.
Hanging out at the back of the caboose is about getting happy. Being whole. Discovering the best me I can be. Living my own dreams. Connecting deeply.
The last curve of the sun slips away as the train banks around a long curve. In the fading light I reach for your hand.
7 Comments
That was beautiful and inspiring!
Thank you, Marina. I couldn’t be happier that you think so and that you let me know.
I am more relaxed just from reading this! Thanks for the moment of calm at the end of a hectic day.
Success! Thanks for joining me there.
you are right, the world is a mad house, its people that make it that way, and its money, or more the desire to have material possesions that fuels this cycle. Introverts can see this for what it is , i think we have better eye sight or can just see further. But what do you do once you relise this?, its like being on an alien planet where all the rules dont really suit you.
my spelling is mistakes , we cant spell in NZ ( never really saw the point personally, as long as u understand it.
Maybe it can be as simple as finding people we like to slow down with.
Having trouble finding a job when I’m totally honest to them about this part of myself.
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