A Walkabout

One day—long ago now—too long ago
I took a walk—a hike—with my dog—my sidekick
I didn’t go to work—I just woke up and—well—didn’t
For the first time in my life—I just said no

It was liberating—eye opening—my debut
Later that morning my friend at work called to check on me
I was alright
You’re on a hike?
I’m on a hike
What do I tell people, that you’re on a… walkabout?
Well—yes—that’s perfect. Yes I’m on a walkabout.
Tell them that.

It was one of my best days
I told myself I needed to do this more often.
I needed to walkabout more often
I think I vowed to walkabout

I haven’t done one since
I realized just now—fifteen years later—that I haven’t done another walkabout
At least not like that anyway

A proper walkabout is when, despite commitments and things to do
You drop it all—risk the consequences—forget the obligations and responsibilities—
And just go.

I need one now