Close this post at once! It's nothing but foma!

In Cat's Cradle, Kurt Vonnegut wrote, "Peculiar travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God."

I'm not usually one to pick up my theology from satirical black humor novels, but that line resonates with me. I feel like it makes sense, explaining interaction with God in a beautifully poetic way. Following an odd or unusual invitation through to the end is a spectacular way to meet interesting new people, see beautiful places, and learn a lot about your self as well. In a different mindset, the "peculiar travel suggestions" could be mental or spiritual destinations. Allowing your self to follow a strange spiritual path for a time can open the soul to new horizons.

I'm not as good at this as I'd like, but I am learning. I am going to Portland, Oregon, in 3 weeks with Quentin and Chris. They're from Indianapolis. None of us are quite sure why we're going, other than a vague idea of scoping out a city we know mostly through pop culture folklore, and yet love it anyway.

Portland is a marvelous city, a haven for free spirits and those who like to live a little slower. Powell's Books is a Mecca for bibliophiles, or wannabes like me. Portland is like Seattle but with fewer assholes. It's our kind of place.

I should mention Chris, Quentin, and I are eerily alike in many ways. Who knows what to expect. Nothing, and everything.

Their invitation a week or so ago seemed at best a passing temptation, but nothing I seriously considered. A bit irresponsible, I thought, and that is unusual for me.

I was reading Cat's Cradle this week, and as soon as I read the above line I felt strangely compelled to go to Portland with my Hoosier brethren. My visit with them almost a month ago was a crucial rung on my ladder. This time I hope to be there for them, and to grow further myself. I truly love those guys as brothers.

Peace and love.