Lonely Planet

We all travel this world sometimes thinking that we are on this journey alone.  But all it takes is a quick glance left and right to see that we are not alone.  We are all on the same journey taking different interconnecting paths in life.

As much as it can seem that we journey alone, we are most certainly in it together.

Our lives, although different are inherently similar.  We vary in terms of the direction, the distance, the circumstances, the interruptions and the motivations behind what we do.  Yet at the core of it, we share the same common human truths.  This is evident in Jason Reynolds' Look Both Ways.  In this novel, regardless of any of the circumstances each character finds themselves in, this interconnectedness is undeniable.

We are all like the kids in this novel; walking home from school uniquely individual yet fundamentally the same. 

We may feel like we are on this journey of life on our own.  But we are all travelling together carrying our own baggage, trying to get somewhere, hopeful about what's to come but not knowing what the future may hold.  

Yet no matter where our paths may lead, we will all eventually reach the same unavoidable end destination.  We are all on a journey that will end one day.  

Does that scare you?  Or does that make our time here on this earth that much more precious?

As the days pass, you might wonder what's the point?  You might catch yourself mindlessly passing judgment on fellow travelers.  But do you know their story?  Have you considered their history?  Have you any idea what mark they have left on the world?

If you haven't, then it's time to stop and look both ways.  

As we journey through life together, before we reach our shared final destination, look both ways and get to know those travelers standing next to you.  You may find that the this planet is not such a lonely place after all.

Look both ways and you will see that you do not walk alone.  We are all in this together.