We wake up quickly, with a wrongful perception of time. Rushing to fulfill a morning routine, consisting of a quick shower and a sloppy pick-out of an outfit. After a weak breakfast, (usually a single banana and a granola bar) we immediately head out to our car, ready to embark on a journey of uncertainty. 

Music blasting throughout the car reflects our minds as we speed to pick up friends: rightfully disorganized, joyfully aimless, and full of energy. Once we pull into our friend’s driveway, all of that rushing comes to an end. A realization is made after the 5th missed call and the 3rd knock on the door. Eventually, a text emerges with the languorous message, “I’ll be right out.” We are now complacent with being late. 

There is no need for conversation, with Linger by the Cranberries and Zach Bryan tunes absorbing our attention as our hands flow freely in the wind beyond the car. The warm rays cast from the sun gently fight against the cool air flowing in through the windows. These are the times that we live for, nothing to worry about, but those same worries make this feeling the greatest. We feel such freedom, but without guilt. 

Hair blowing in the wind and the breeze from the speed on the highway suddenly comes to a stop as we hit traffic. This hopeless standstill among the travelers within these cars fosters a time for conversation. It starts with a game, pointing out license plates and different signs. Like a loose growing vine, we wrap our minds around an undefinable topic: such as our existence, why we think certain things, or our morals. Time slips away from us, and as soon as we know it we are out of the traffic as easily as we came into it.

We are in the homestretch. The adrenaline rush we feel rises, as we discuss our plans for the day and how much opportunity lies ahead. This certain feeling, as indescribable as it is, is what we have been waiting for this whole trip. The air smells better, the grass greener, and somehow everything we see is beautiful. This destination is what we have awaited, but our greatest adventure has come to an end. The ride is over.