A Short Story Long on Lessons
"Hiking was my therapy. A few steps on a trail and my back un-knots. The desire to check my phone is checked. Revenue, employees, customers, bills and bank balances grew fuzzy and disappear. It was one foot in front of the other. Simple."
Simple, in theory. A short story on Amazon, Flask Walker and the Solo Hike, takes the reader on a hike that entertains while cleverly providing hiking tips that can save your life.
"The clouds are getting darker. It was going to be a sloppy, wet hike. I drive past the ski resort. Snow is still a month away. A few people walk the tourist trails. Leisurely strolls for sure but at least these people are outside. I pull off the paved road onto a gravel one that runs for fifteen miles to the start of the hike. Along the way the rain starts to come down.There are no other cars in the parking lot at the trailhead. I leave a note on my dash detailing where I am headed, when I set out, and when I expect to be back. This includes a description of my clothing and cell number. It is good practice. I could snap an ankle. Pass out. You get the idea.
What I like about hiking is its minimalist nature. I don’t use hiking poles except in certain winter conditions. A good pair of boots and decent backpack will see you a long way. Golf, skiing, sailing. All you do is buy more gizmos for those sports. Yes, there are plenty of hiking accessories but you do not need them. Legs and brains suffice."


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