One week into my journey I find myself blow away by the kindness of good people. Being flexible and open-minded has already surprised me with wonderful experiences. Strangers can become good friends and suddenly you find yourself on the grounds of a beautiful estate you never would have known about otherwise. The lush green landscape stretches for thousands of acres and the sun shines brightly on the “hunting lodge.” Lollipop trees are meticulously cared for and the grass is springy underneath my feet.

We continue to walk the grounds, around the hedge maze, to the tennis court and pool. Happiness seems like it will burst out of my chest. Not because of the landscape, although that helps, but because of the people welcoming me with open arms and open hearts. I’ve been smiling for days and my cheeks are beginning to hurt.

Through friends of friends I was introduced to Vance and Jason. We met in Cambridge and they invited me to stay with them for a few days. At first sight it was nothing but laughter, compassion, and odd coincidences. Vance has family connections in Hawaii. Jason’s parents, in for a short visit, are huge travel enthusiasts. Their love for each other and their compassion for me is humbling and inspiring. As we continue to share our stories we find more connections and coincidences. It’s as if fate has stepped in to remind me that the world is very small and we are all infinitely connected to one another.

I leave Vance and Jason with a warm heart, brimming with excitement for the next chapter. British people are extremely kind and well-mannered. They shared a bit of their life with me while teaching me kindness and generosity. I hope to always be kind to others, at my worst and at my best. This is a new challenge I will attempt to undertake as I continue my journey north to Scotland. I am determined to pay it forward the best that I can.

The world is full of pleasant surprises and each moment is a new adventure.