The Outsider

 For September's hike I'm part of the group's WhatsApp chat group.  Many in the group already know each other from a previous hike in 2024.  I'm a newbie, an outsider.  I see lots of messages exchanging info about where individuals are staying, sharing accommodations, etc.  I've responded once or twice but basically haven't had a response.

I wonder how I'll be accepted, both as a newcomer and as an American.  I think a lot of the group are Aussies, being that Dan's from Sydney.  There's also other Americans in the group.  It's never been easy for me to integrate into a group, so there's some trepidation on my part.  Let's say I'll be doing a lot of feeling out the first couple days.  And I'm sure politics enter the picture as well.  How are Americans viewed overseas?  Can they look at me for what I am as an individual, or will they look at me as a damn Yankee?  Especially being rather...conservative.  I walk to get away from the noise, not be consumed by it yet again.

Please accept me for me, not for being an over 60, WASPy, conservative male.  I'll accept you for who you are as well.

Too many times in my life I've been the loner, the outsider, the square among circles.  And sometimes I wonder if I really want to fit in anymore.  Do I fit in this world?  Where?  Why should politics play such a large part?  The beauty of the hiking bubble is we're just people.

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