Discovery

September 21st

A surprise is just around the corner — literally. And I found out this simple truth this morning. I was walking to work, doing my part against raging inflation and climate change. Walking, since I made a decision to cut down on driving as much as possible. I still bike to work once in a while, but this morning was wet and cold, so I decided to walk. Getting to work takes me 15 minutes by car, 16–17 minutes by bike, and 40 minutes walking. Obviously, biking is the best option, especially since after work I can go back home by a longer route, getting a solid workout. But since the fall came on very quickly this year, on cold and wet days walking it is. I have several options for walking and have been trying them, recording the time and distance, to find the best option. Today, as I was walking by the traffic circle on the map above, I noticed this street that seemed like a good shortcut. As soon as I made a turn, I realized that I have never been on that street ever in my life. And that street is right in my surrounding neighborhood. I pride myself on knowing the local geography and topography very well. I spend countless hours making long walks around my city, and I was sure that there are no surprises there for me. Not only that, but I knew that I know all the streets, alleyways, pathways, and shortcuts already. And apparently, it wasn't the case — even though I walked or biked right by this traffic circle numerous times, for some reason I never made a turn onto this particular street. The street itself is not much — there are some nondescript houses (albeit with nice gardens) on one side, and some light industry buildings on the other. But the fact remains — I discovered a street that was always there whenever I passed nearby but was never seen by me, until today. A small thing, but it made me happy. After work, I went by the same route just to see it again. And again I could just smile as walked this street. There are few things now in my life and in the world around me that make me happy and bring a smile to my face. So, this unusual discovery was very nice and welcomed for my mental health. And also, that small thing reminded me that it is mostly those small, insignificant things that make me happy. And they are everywhere, I just need to keep my eyes open to enjoy a pleasant moment.