Sojourner’s Journey
by Christine Verdon 

It’s my journey. The kitten is accidental – she crossed my path when I was sitting in the park. She looked so pathetic and alone, I had to give her a part of my cracker. When I got up to leave she started following me on her little kitten legs but she started falling behind, and I could hear her crying, so I picked her up.

I shouldn’t have done that.

So here we are. She’s now a part of my journey.

Don’t scrutinize me with your looks. You don’t know me. You don’t understand the journey or the goal.

Neither does Sojourner – my cat – but she’s with me and she’s happy to be with me and now I am happy to have her.

Why do we name animals? Do we pass on part of our identities when we name them? To give them a trait we want to possess or we do possess? Oh well, it doesn’t matter. She is now Sojourner and she’s my non-judgmental traveling pal.

You know, she makes me feel safe. I can feel her little heart beat on my chest and I think, we’re going to be ok.

I hate hitchhiking but what else can I do? So, before I get in I look at who’s trying to give me a ride.

They say that animals have good instincts about people. So, I have Sojourner look at them. If she looks away or starts making noise I know not to get in. Sounds silly? Maybe, but I’ve started to count on her to help me and she does – nothing bad’s happened since we’re together.

They always ask – ok, where are you going? I tell them, I’ll know when I get there and then we both laugh. But is that so funny?

I know where I’ve been and that wasn’t any good so getting where I want to be will be an interesting adventure.

Anyway, so we talk nonsense and I make up stories so the driver has some company — that’s usually all they want is someone to talk to while they drive.

But my stuff is right there, I always keep my pack on my back and

Sojourner tucked in my jacket so if we have to make a run for it we can. But, that hasn’t happened for a while. I don’t sleep. Never, ever unless it’s a couple. I always feel safer when it’s a couple.

False security? I don’t know, but I guess I just think that if its two people, and if it’s two girls or women, I feel safer. But it’s like sleeping with one eye open. Just in case. Cause you never know.

Oh, and from experience, don’t get in if it’s two guys. I was told that by the others before I left.

Anyway, thanks for being interested but I’m fine. I’m not lost.

It’s good to be able to move on and, like I said, I’ll know when I get there.