January 22nd, 2011
Total Distance for today: 30 miles
Total Distance for Tour: approx. 748 miles
LOCATION: Bessemer City, NC
STATUS: Overwhelmed
What You Need When You Need It
It’s so strange, how what you need comes to you when you need it, but no sooner, and only if you’re moving with intention in your life. Friday night and the beginning of Saturday morning were a bit rough for me, as I was feeling pretty physically and emotionally bad about the skate. It’s been a bit rough whipping my self back into shape after the holiday break, and our financial situation has been pretty destitute (though I’ve had just enough).
I was preparing to leave for my skate (on Saturday), when my Couchsurfing host, Jason, asked me if there was a place to donate on my website. It was in passing, so I didn’t think too much about it; however, right before I left, he asked me if he could write me a check to help with the cause. I told him that I didn’t want him to feel obligated in any way, as he had already done so much for me, but he insisted. He handed me the check, and as I rounded the corner, I was shocked by the amount. Let’s just say it was very generous. It was for the exact amount as what I told him was still in limbo from another donation that got a bit bungled (my fault… and American Express’s fault).
I was honestly so shocked, that I couldn’t believe it. How could someone who had already helped me out so much and who I had just met give so much? Jason will always be my friend, but not because he donated. He will be my friend, because he believed in what I’m doing. That belief was exactly what I needed to keep me going during this difficult (yet interesting) re-adjustment period.
$32 Motel or Luxurious Suite?
I was 30 miles into my skate and was about to skate the last 8 miles to the Motel Royal in Kings Mountain. You see, I was unable to find a Couchsurfing host who could help me to properly split the distance between Charlotte, NC and Spartanburg, SC. Just before skating out of Bessemer City, a woman yelled out from across the road where she was getting her car worked on; she was curious. I skated over and started telling my story. A few more people came from out of the woodwork as well. The woman’s name was Glenda, and after telling her where I was planning to stay, she offered for me to stay at her place.
I hesitated at first, just because I thought that I should stay on track with my skate. But then, I thought about the movie “Yes Man,” and I thought to myself, “What would someone who wanted to live an interesting life do?” I went to stay with Glenda and her family.
Glenda’s house is HUGE at about 4500 square feet. It is also one of the oldest houses in the county, with a certain Victorian appeal. We ordered and enjoyed some sesame chicken and shared some great conversation. When Glenda took me up to my room for the evening, I was shocked for the second time in the day. The room could only be be described as “luxurious and large.” It had a private fireplace, a separate living room/patio with large windows and Victorian furniture, and a huge king size bed. Glenda’s friends have joked that she should start some form of bed and breakfast inn. I tend to agree! Pictures below.
Moral of the story: Stick true to your vision, even when it gets tough. If it gets too tough, stick true to it anyway, and the things you need will come, when you need them. Sometimes, you will get more than you need. I can’t explain it, so don’t ask me to, but I can keep telling you my story.
