Recently, we've seen the other side of the coin. Some people are downright scared of us. Some obviously think we're making trouble or stealing things or, in general, that we're not who we say we are. The cops have, from time-to-time, been called because people think the horse is loose (though she hasn't been loose even once). But recently the cops have been called on us a few times because we were "scaring people" - just by being around, we suppose.
It's also worth mentioning an interesting phrase we've heard from some… Something to the effect of, "Well, it's a good thing you met me. I'll treat you right, but these other people…" followed by a slow head shake. Or maybe: "We're good folks around here, but the people over there, they're mean/dangerous/etc…". Just the other day, on our way into Athens, a well-meaning man in his thirties gave a long cautionary speech about the dangers of downtown Athens, specifically about the aggressive, mean homeless population. And when we got there, our experience just couldn't have been more different.
People can be mean, cruel, awful to one another - and we're cautious when we should be, we are using our heads - but it seems most of the time it's more of a mistake to distrust our fellow man. And distrusting each other stems from distrusting God. We, as travelers, as people, don't want to be this way. We believe that faith in God, humble and child-like, can lead to extraordinary things in this world - our trip is proof. Thanks to those who are brave enough to give.
- FCF
P.S. Here are a ton of pictures from our last day in Hendersonville from the 3rd week of our trip.
https://plus.google.com/photos/109958842068383941885/albums/5937188221005960497?banner=pwa
Olive gives kisses to friends we make on the street
Meadow give pony rides to folks who can't take their eyes off of her, who can't quite talking about her
I am a friend of Jill, the lady you met in Americus, GA. She posted how happy she was to meet you, and how nice you both seemed on Facebook.
ReplyDeleteOf course the immediate reaction from everyone was "be careful" or "watch out! They want something!"
This hurts my heart, because I genuinely believe that true happiness begins with loving and accepting your fellow man, regardless of circumstances.
On behalf of the entire population of my state, I apologize for any skepticism you have encountered, as well as all of the questions as to your "intents".
I have read your blog before, and I was excited to see that you stopped here! God bless you both on your journey, and please know that, for the most part, we Georgians are happy to have you!
If you make your way to Hawkinsville, GA at any time, I can be reached via email at amberky86@gmail.com. I'd love for you all to stop for a visit!
Lots of Love!
Amber