Umbrella stories

I visited a college campus a few years ago, just as the skies opened. I had forgotten that it was supposed to rain all day, and I was unprepared. Finding a visitor’s center, I bought the last umbrella they had in stock — larger than I needed, but perfect for keeping me dry.

When I got to the event I had planned to attend, I propped the umbrella in a corner near the entrance.

And you guessed it: when the event was over, my new umbrella was nowhere to be found.

But I wasn’t bothered. Aside from the rainy walk to the parking garage, I didn’t need another umbrella (I had one at home).

I’d like to think that someone in desperate need of a dry walk spied the umbrella and delighted in their good fortune. I’d like to think that the umbrella continues to be passed (or taken) as needed. A pay-it-forward gamp of sorts.

On another occasion, my wife and I had finished having dinner on a trip to Baltimore. Walking back to the hotel, we saw a man sitting in the rain with a sign telling of his struggle with homelessness. My wife and I looked at each other and silently agreed: this man should have our umbrella.

One umbrella stolen. One umbrella given. Both for the better.

Getting wet isn’t the biggest deal in the world, but staying dry can be of some comfort. My new approach to travel is this: whatever umbrella you carry, let it be one that you’re willing to give away freely.