Stuck my thumb out,
Been fifteen years since I've tapped a ride.
Feels raw and unfamiliar.

Once stood on the Trans-Canada.
For two days,
Just outside of Medicine Hat.
Cold night.

People are afraid of me.
I can see it in their eyes as they **** bye,
Puppy frowns, won't play eye tag, no smiles.

Most interesting conversations of my life,
Were inside a stranger's car.
People will tell a hiker everything.
Why not.

There's a beauty in the chance encounter.
A freedom.
Give it another hour but the day might be gone.
Too bad.
Asking is starting to look like begging.
And begging never works.
Ever.