Chapter 3

As I trudged under the oppressive midday heat I passed an elderly man, sitting cross legged in the dust on the side of the road. I stopped for a moment to look at him. From where I stood I could have sworn he was dad.

His flat chest stood motionless, and the dust had settled on his bald head like a blanket. As my curiosity got the better of me and I leaned closer to the old man.

"What may I ask what are you searching for young man?" he spoke, causing me to start back a step.

I apologised saying, "I did not mean to disturb you. I mistook you for a corpse."

"There is no need to apologise, for when I meditate little startles me."

"You knew I was there?" I queried as I moved to the side of the rode.

"Yes, in fact I heard you coming this way near half an hour ago."

I stared at the old man for a moment, "you are jesting with me."

"I do not jest young man, please sit so that I may speak with you."

As I sat down facing this strange man I asked, "were you waiting for me?"

"I wait for no one and yet I wait for everyone," was his response.

"I was very young," he continued on, "and most likely much like you. Travelling this world aimlessly with no true destination. I lived day to day with no hope for the future nor any life in the past. One day as I travelled I was stricken blind by a strange bird. It had pecked my eyes out as I slept. A traveller not unlike myself as I am now took pity on me and helped me to the next town. There he stayed with me,at first I was impatient and morose. I longed for death, yet still this strange traveller stayed with me. Years passed as I slowly realised the true meaning of peace. The pain I felt at the loss of my sight was replaced by a peace fullness I never thought to exist. Now I sit here in the very spot in which I was blinded, imparting some of the wisdom and kindness the strange traveller showed to me."

I smiled and nodded, even though he could not see my actions I some how knew he could tell what I would do. A soft yet gnarled hand reached over and patted my own hand. "Be safe in your travels young one, for there are times ahead that will test you."

As I stood up I smiled, "I have come across many such trials, but I will keep your words close to my heart."

He nodded sagely as I walked away, unsure whether or not he knew I was near three times his age.