“MS Patient Found on Rural Road” could be the caption of a story in the Prince of Wales  Island newspaper, “Island News.” I wouldn’t say that I get lost often but I do get lost, which for those reading this whom have been here, you might find that ridiculous. In my defense these roads are wall-to-wall trees, continuously curvy, water sources of all kinds along the way, filled with old logging roads, and in my world are easy to confuse. I have mentioned that I have memory problems? Well, that too.

One day I was lost again. Flagging down a small truck, I was pleasantly surprised to see one of my former students jump out and come running back to my vehicle. We exchanged updates and then she asked, “What can I do for you today?” I admitted that I was lost to which she asked playfully and in disbelief, “Are you being silly Mrs. Cook?” I laughed.

Finding myself lost on occasion, I pull over to refocus and take a minute to think of where I have been and what I expect to be coming up. Here on the island I feel safe asking for help when needed and have curiously, always known whom I’ve pulled over. In the big city, anywhere but here, I use my path finder – iPhone navigator.