Reflection: My angel on the hike

I met a tiny, fragile soul on the road while hiking. She followed me for hours, through deep grass, terraces, rocks, and mountains, all the way to the water. After hiking down to the beach through the rocks for two hours, I was lost, rocks and mountains all looked the same. From the top of a mountain, the path seemed clear, but going up was impossible. The map could not guide me back, because there was no road. The sun was setting, and there was no one around. I could not see a clear way forward.

She followed me while I tried to find my way out. I waited for her every few steps, even carrying her through areas too harsh for her little feet. As the sun went down, and with no houses or people in sight, I became scared. I ran, hoping to climb the mountains and find the right path. Because I was running, eventually I lost her.

Once I found my way out, I went back to look for her, but she was gone, lost in the rocks. I wanted to go back again and again. I thought about taking her to a nearby village, maybe bringing her back to my home in the US. Then I realized even though I have good intentions, all these thoughts came from wanting to improve her life, but how could I know what would truly be better for her? Bringing her to a nearby village might not improve her life. Taking her back to the US could mean leaving her in a stranger’s care for months, navigating paperwork, and flying on a plane.

I am sure she loved me, but I am not sure if she would have chosen that. Perhaps she felt safe, tenderly cared for, and loved, which is why she followed me for hours like a dog might. But maybe she chose to continue her life, navigating the world in her own way, carrying the care I offered in that moment.

There is a weighted sadness in my heart, and I admit it. She will always remain special to me and stay in my heart.