Last Hike of the Year

Dear Family and Friends,

Today was the last hike of the year. Originally, we were planning to go to a faraway place, promising a rough climb. But one of the members pointed out that we are all older now. He felt such an effort in one day would be a bit much. So, our leader, Ajiki San, settled on a mountain within Sendai City limits, but very much in the countryside. In fact, we passed many well-tended farms to get there.

It was a long weekend and the leaves would surely be stunning. So, we were not alone. The parking lot was almost full when we arrived early in the morning. But even so, once we were in the forest, we could easily immerse ourselves, as if alone, in Nature’s autumnal gifts.

Ajiki San, as usual, shared much information with whomever of us was nearby to listen. He explained about a certain plant that when dried could be made into a tea that soothed the stomach. 

And later about a large leaf that was also useful. In the past, people wrapped miso in it to give a lovely taste and aroma to the paste. 

He talked about camping in the woods. Once he felt the spirits of ninja creeping past his tent, even as he was soothed by the gentle flowing sound of a nearby stream. 

“The forest is alive,” he said. “Alive with the distant past, what is now and to come. There is wisdom there. We have to learn and respect its stories.”

He also told us about Edo and Meiji Era customs. I asked him if he read a lot of books to get knowledge about the past. “Sometimes,” he replied. “But I prefer talking to old timers. They know things firsthand, so I feel they are more reliable. Plus, they recount customs that are so ordinary they never make it into books.”

A trip is not complete without at least one mishap. This time, fortunately, it was easily resolved. When we reached the peak of where we wanted to go, another hiker came running up to us. “Have any of you lost a phone and wallet?” We all started pawing through out belongings. Suddenly one of us said, “It’s me! I can’t find either!!”

“Not to worry. They will be waiting for you at the Information Counter down at the parking lot.” 

And sure enough, that is where they were. All money and credit cards intact, phone smiling happily.

Somehow that reminded me of an incident I had a few days ago. My bike needed air in its tires. I walked it to the supermarket, where I could borrow a pump. The thing was well used and in rather bad shape. But even so, I endeavored to hold the ill-fitting nozzle on the tire with one hand, while trying to pump with the other. It was rather awkward, to say the least. 

Suddenly I heard someone say, “Can I help you?” That was music to my ears.

The kind gentleman and I worked together to somehow get my bike tires filled with air. As I thanked him profusely, he bowed and said, in English, “My pleasure,” and then quickly departed.

It is so encouraging, and necessary — maybe especially today — to experience beauty in the world. The Beauty of Nature and the Beauty of the Human Heart.

Love,

Anne