After lunch, I went to Tilly’s coffee shop, one of my favorite spots in the neighborhood. The atmosphere on Sunday afternoon was very relaxing. I sat next to a young couple who were studying with their computers. 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 forums. 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 past the central lawn and the grand fountain. The green open space was as lovely as ever on 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 had gone down this path before. On the other hand, the dirt path on the left led to a different place.
I entered the woods 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 a 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 the 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 serenity 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.