Warm Showers or Get a Gun

As we were planning the trip, more than a few people asked if I intended to carry a weapon; you know, pack heat, get a gun. They feared for our safety, of course, and I deeply appreciate their concern. However it also says a lot about our society.

My personal opinion is that the proliferation of weapons in the United States has led to more violence, not less. Those that feel the need to carry a weapon see threatening situations at every turn. They must mistrust strangers since their assumption is that people are bad, and mean to do them harm. Maybe I am exaggerating a little, but I do not see how we can feel a sense of community with our fellow man, and also be afraid or ready to pull the trigger. There has to be a better way.

This week Jana and I were introduced to the website warmshowers.org, a site that matches bike riders with hosts across the US. After enrolling and providing the necessary personal information (hosts also provide the same information and travelers post comments to rate their experiences) we were able to search for a host who would provide us with a bed, shower and meal. Our host in High Springs, FL told us to let ourselves in to the house since we would arrive early (the door is never locked).  This host has been part of the network for over three years, and has housed dozens of cyclists. The log book in our bedroom even included an entry on Thanksgiving 2008.

Before leaving on this trip I could never have imagined that anyone would invite a stranger into their home. These Warm Shower hosts have a view of the world that most people are good and honest. Because of this high level of trust, their life is made richer due to the people they meet and the experiences they share. In a sense the hosts and travelers have developed a strong sense of community that is founded on trust and respect. Once our journey is complete, Jana and I will become Warm Showers hosts. Beyond that, my feeling of a shared humanity will stay with me forever.

For those who still think we need to be armed, rest assured that I have a new can of pepper spray in case of mean dogs. With all the weight we need to carry, the gun was not an option.