After lunch, I went to Tilly's coffee shop, one of my favorite spot in the neighborhood. The atmosphere in the Sunday afternoon was very relaxing. I sat next to a young couple who were studying with their computer. Most other people, there were a few older ones, were just sitting and passing time. I was supposed to work on the homework assignment for my writing class tomorrow. Instead I found myself browsing on the computer, reading news, and commenting on Internet forum. Before long I have emptied my drink. I was disappointed that I still have not written a single word. Resigned, I packed up and headed to grocery shopping before returning home.

On my way I passed through the Golden Gate Park. Sunday was always a popular time. It was such a beautiful place where many visitors were coming to see and enjoy. Right next to me was the lush and charming respite of the Botanical Garden. Why didn't I stop by for a short walk?

I went inside and walked pass the central lawn and the grand fountain. The green open space was as lovely as ever in this overcast day. But I really wanted to check out some spots on the peripheral that I had not seen before. I followed the sign pointing away from the main area. California natives and redwoods, sounds interesting to me. I followed the path, which turned and turned and led me down to a dale. Wait, this looked familiar. I thought I have gone down this path before. On the other hand, the dirt path on the left, led to a different place.

I entered the wood via the trail. The path was wet after a few days of rain. I stepped on the dark mulch and water was oozing under my feet. After a short climb, I exited the woods. This was a hidden part of the garden I have not seen before. A tree stood in front of me. All its leaves have turned into golden color, making it stand out from the green background. Fallen leaves blanketed the quiet path in yellow. Gingko tree this is, says the information sign. Under the trees were a few pieces of rocks. Thick mosses, soft like velvet cover, wrapped the rock completely. Next to it is a stone path. I followed it and wandered away.

Soon it led me to a bamboo forest. A meandering path cut through the bamboo grove. Or were they planted this way originally to allow people to walk inside? Either way, I immersed myself inside this green darkness, feeling the meditative atmosphere inside.

The bamboo forest gave way to an open area. There was a wild meadow. In front of it was a small pond obscured by tall grasses. In a distance, the canopy of Monterey Cypress rises high up in sky. It felt like I was in a wild country somewhere. I was positively lost by then, not knowing the location or the orientation. The California natives and redwoods that I was coming for, I have never found out where they are. Instead I ended up in an unknown country.

I awoke from the serentiy to the siren sounds from an emergency vehicle speeding by. It was a clue that I was situated close to the heavily trafficked Lincoln way just behind the wall of trees. A reminder that I was in the middle of a big city.

Feeling properly rejuvenated, I have found my way back out and continued on my grocery trip.

2016.12.19 comments