Why do we need it?

Yesterday I did something I almost never get to do: take a walk with my dad. No, not because I don’t want to, or don’t have the time, but because we live about 3000 miles apart (Seattle-to-New York is a long run for me, I’m still working on it—I’m gonna try a standard length marathon first, because Forrest Gump is still a better distance runner than I).

All that said, I grew up in one of the most beautiful tourist towns in the U.S.: Lake George, NY. It is simply beautiful, and when it’s hot and sunny in the July sun, it’s unforgettable. 

On the streets of Lake George: a mighty performer! BTW: he's holding a bowling pin, a knife... and a plunger!

I have been running my butt off out here, and it really feels good. That said, my story is about walking. Slower pace—taking it all in. And my dad—well—he likes to wander. We just can’t ever walk side by side. It’s kind of endearing… it’s ok, I love him for it. This was the kind of walk that had a feeling of two very disparate feelings: isolation and togetherness.

Isolation and togetherness

So really, the first word is not really about being physically apart. We were enjoying our own form of connection as we dodged the tourists by the boardwalk on the lake. What I realized shortly after leaving the house through, was that I left with no keys, no cell phone and no wallet: completely empty pockets. A million thoughts from a city dweller that is always in touch with these things, and always able to be reached. I was out of touch, unable to buy a coke, and unable to open a garage door without help.

Oh hail to true freedom!

So what are we really? Are we all these crazy objects we’re attached to? I just dropped my iPhone for the umpteenth time, and felt bad about it, because I like my technology toys to always be shiny (well, this one is thoroughly scuffed at this point). What are we focused on? Ok, ok… what am I focused on?  Do we all just need a “walk with dad” sans any kind of technology, identification, purchasing power or house entry ability? Is that what we need to rediscover ourselves, our place in the world, and our attraction and attachment to “things?” 

Ok… I vote for togetherness.

Now, if that happens to involve gadgets, great. As I continue to become involved with Microsoft retail services (ala the Microsoft Store), I have to be aware of technology, new developments, and family purchasing trends... I guess in this case, it's MY purchasing trends in relation to family... or something like that. But it's more about letting go as I simply enjoy companionship.

With all that said, I stand corrected. This is what I am up against: in reflecting upon togetherness, I write from the house of my parents. We have been watching the movie “What Women Want.” My mom just went to bed to watch TV. She turned on the same movie. How should I feel about this?

Togetherness?

Ok, I’ll just try to be thankful for quadraphonic sound (stereo from two rooms…).

Ahhh, togetherness…

m