There's something about car rides that intrigues me. Perhaps it's the notion of going somewhere or being able to get from point A to point B at the drop of a hat and a tank of gas. Or perhaps it's the way it feels to be in your own little world, singing along to the radio or beating the steering wheel like a drum, all the while watching the world fly by, knowing that you're the one who's actually doing the flying.I like the way it feels to have the ground pass beneath you with nothing more than a floor mat and piece of steel between you and the open road. I like the way you can feel the rumble strips and speed bumps without ever having to touch them, making the whole situation feel like "The Princess and the Pea". I like the way it feels to get out of the car, at long last, and stretch your legs and reach for the sky, a feeling that seems to say "I've finally made it".
I like how road trips sound happy and light. With rarely a negative connotation. With imagery that includes buying snacks for the road, making playlists to listen to and saving things to talk about on the way. I love the sunlight that casts a shadow as it passes trough the trees that go by, flickering to the tune of the tires below. I love drifting in and out of consciousness while being lulled by the rhythm of the road. There's a trust that comes in being able to sleep while someone else is behind the wheel. Seeing the world behind a curtain of eyelids while life flashes by in streaks of red and yellow, eyes flickering back and forth on the cusp of dreaming. Not only is your life in their hands but there's a level of comfort and intimacy that's required to not feel obligated to keep the driver company, keep them entertained. To allow them to be alone with their thoughts with you in the 'room'. To be an arms length away at all times and not say a word.
I miss the hum of the road. The excitement of the journey and the moment of arrival. One of my favorite things in the world is being chauffeured around while I look at houses and passersby. I look forward to the next time I get to use my seat belt as a pillow, buy gummy bears at a gas station and stop beside the road for an impromptu photo of an over-sized novelty item.
Where the road takes me, I do not know... but I sure do look forward to the journey.
1 comments:
we used to take road trips when we were kids all the time and I love them still. It's a little harder to do with the baby but when we drive long distances with her we just make sure to stop a lot so she can get out and stretch her legs. with everything being so busy all the time and all of us always so connected, our time in the car is a favorite for my husband and me. we just get to be together, listen to music and just relax in a way that never seems to be possible otherwise..too many computers, books, tv, etc.
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