Thursday, March 31, 2011

Day Nine

Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Distance: 21.8 Miles

I started at the University of Delaware and quickly crossed the Mason-Dixon line into Maryland. The Wikipedia entry on its creation is fascinating. The early history of colonial political establishment vis a vis borders makes one oddly newly grateful for federalism. Imagine if states went to war today over geographic, separatist, and or irredentist claims. These things happened, 350 years ago here - a strong historical portfolio to refute American exceptionalism.

I came upon a small town proud of itself. It was quaint with well maintained homes and plaques denoting town history. Then it got weird. Two separate homeless men - one on a packed to haul bike, one with a well-laden cart - mistook me for a fellow hobo, pointing out a place for food. It was a kindness for which I was supremely unprepared.







I passed a twelve-foot fat Budha.







Approaching the Susquehanna River brought the need to find a ride over the bridge. Police Officer Dvorak was kind enough to sigh and take me over. Thank you. He offered me good luck on my trip and drove back across.

2 comments:

  1. It's great to learn about your encounters with generosity from knights of the road and public servants (even if sometimes reluctant). DAD

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  2. I sense that you are enjoying the walk. Years ago I had to crosss the Susquehanna by driving a two lane road atop a high concrete dam. The bridge was not yet there. Love, Grandfather

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