I inadvertently crossed off "night hike" from my quest list. I miss judged sunset by a mile and ended up on the trail after dark. It was scary but all turned out well. Some other hikers noticed that they passed me by but didn't see me come back out of the trail. So they set out looking for me. The husband walked back with me while the wife stayed at the car with the headlights lighting the way at the trailhead. I got scared when I realized I would be out after dark, but then realized that worrying or being scared would not help me. It might cause more problems. So I made a decision to let go of the fear and then I prayed. I had prayed for safety and mercy and to get back to my car safe and sound. I started back on the trail and then looked up. I saw what looked like a person standing at the top of a hill I was climbing. Again, I was frightened and nervous. But, again, I decided that that was not an option, so continued on. I couldn't just stay there. Again, I prayed as I approached what I thought was a person - they were standing so still I was not sure. But then he moved and I realized it was indeed a person. As I got closer I called out, "Hey there! Friend or foe?!" Dorky thing to say, I know, but I was hoping the person would answer truthfully! and be a friend! lol
He told me that when he and his wife were getting ready to leave they realized that they had not seen me come out. He says, "Do you want me to go look for her?" And she said yes. And there he was - an instant answer to prayer. I was really close to the trailhead, but it sure was nice seeing a friendly face and not having to walk out alone. The last bit of the trail out was quite steep, it was gravely and dark so was hard to maneuver.
I took their picture, gave hugs, they waited for me to get in my car and away the went. As I was gathering my things together I looked up toward the trail and saw two lights coming down - a couple of people on bikes, and their dog. That certainly would have posed a problem for me had I still been on the trial. They may not have seen me or either of us could have been hurt. Thankfully I did not have to find out.
All turned out well. I learned many a lesson on this hike.
#thankyoujesus
#gomomma
#hikeatrailaweek