Minutes to midnight

I love bus rides late at night. I always sit in the first seat right
behind the driver so I can watch the road. I love how the bus seems to
eat up the road as we drive. The black darkness stretches out before
us and beckons us into its midst.

Whether you are heading towards a destination or away from a starting
point the road is anonymous. It does not differentiate between
travelers. It does not know who belongs here and who is a stranger. It
does not know anything about you.

The forest surrounds on both sides, the trees slightly menacing and
unfriendly. I wouldnt venture there. Even during the day I'd rather
not explore its mysterious depths but at night it takes on a different
more sinister quality.

I watch the headlights in front of us wondering if we will catch up to
them. If they know we are following them. Is this a race? Where are we
going?

You can get on the road and drive forever and never stop besides for
gas and food. Truck drivers are friends of the road. They are familiar
with burnt coffee and truck stops and taking cat naps in their cabs.
I can't really sleep on busses. I do enjoy traveling and the feeling of
going somewhere. It is exciting.

But now it's late and I'm tired and wishing for my bed.

Oh road how I love thee but it is time to say goodbye. For tonight.