A Day and a Night

- Endless water from unknown heights race by my bare legs as I slowly wash and force my mind to focus on the hours before. All had begun peacefully at five this morning with black tea and a vivid sunrise. Camp broke down quickly and away we went into the inner heights of the Annapurna himal. The trail wound on for hours but spectacular scenery diverted my attention from all but the most painful stretches of trail. I passed many villages; hamlets really. Most of the inhabitants waved greetings with a friendly ‘namaste’ in response to my own.

- The sun burnt across the sky, sending its long searing rays towards earth to scorch my exposed skin. Lunch brought relief under a lone tree and the cold creek erased the ache from my tired feet. Soon I was back on the trail ushering in an afternoon of baking heat and near vertical trails which never seemed to end. In the midst of my silent curses locals would wander over from their fields with waves or rakshi bringing a smile to my face; the heat, foot and back pain all but forgotten.

- It was a simple day; my feet doing the work allowing the eyes to wander freely. The camp site was a welcome sight at half past four; warm beers my reward for 10 hours on the road.

- It’s amazing how many stars can shine. I stare upwards unable to comprehend what they mean. I only gasp at their beauty; the infinite possibilities they represent, to the countless people down through the ages. To some they are a dream, to others, hope of tomorrow. Still there are those who never raise their heads above the horizon.

- Through the night sky they move forever slow; patient and calculating. A thing that can be counted on just as the sun or the moon. In their prime they lived as Gods, Heroes, Champions. Now they simply mesmerize a few, or provide an excuse for foolishness.

- Still, they know, that long after we have passed, they will be the ones who will shine, grateful for whoever is left to watch and appreciate.

the mad innkeeper
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