chasing pavement

a musing on presence, wandering, and lessons of the open road

I recently went on a road trip with my partner, and in between podcasts and our favorite tunes, we found ample space to pause, connect, and reflect. I know the open road isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but for us, it’s become a source of deep connection—and for me personally, an opportunity to recalibrate my nervous system.

There’s something profoundly healing about being immersed in a journey that demands presence and a kind of quiet steadfastness, along with a willingness to surrender to the natural rhythm of a 24-hour cycle.

For me, chasing pavement becomes a meditation.
One moment dissolves into the next:
the intimacy of conversations in the in-between,
daydreaming about adventures to come,
jotting down ideas for writing pieces that want to emerge,
sunlight warming your skin,
beams of light filtering through the green canopy of trees,
chasing sunsets.

It’s all a reminder to slow down.

Relinquishing the need to exist in capitalism’s constant hum of go-go-go, produce, consume, repeat creates space to remember:
Mother Nature is the one truly in control.
We’re just passengers along for the ride.

In many ways, the open road is a metaphor.
A teacher, if you will.

It whispers:
Stop and smell the roses.
Life is happening all around you. Pay attention.
Your time here is finite.

More importantly:
What are you waiting for?
Say yes.
To life.
To love.
To the invitation of now.

It’s all happening now.

© Alana Foy 2025

music courtesy @sofy, Kaspa * Gentle Soul