Yesterday afternoon, I went after a newly published cache. I didn’t get FTF because I didn’t go after it first thing in the morning before work, but that’s not important. A cache is a cache is a cache. It turned out to be a cute little birdhouse, at least partially 3-D printed. To be terribly honest, I’m not entirely sure how long it will last. It’s somewhat obvious along a well-traveled path. I believe that people have a tendency not to see things, but I think the sheer number of people passing through will spike the odds of this one eventually getting muggled. But that’s not important, either.
I stopped to photograph the cache while lovers walked dogs and joggers fielded phone calls. Then I heard a female voice call over my shoulder, “What’re you taking a picture of?” I looked back to see an older (slightly older than me, anyway) and, dare I say Waspish, couple. They looked as if they were having their afternoon stroll, and the woman was inquiring. I motioned toward the pond and the trees and the stone wall beyond and merely replied, “Stuff. You know.” With a slight smile, she accepted the answer, and they continued on their way. Once they were farther down the path, I opened the cap, pulled out the log, and did what I do. Inveni, inscripsi, reposui.
I’ve been told before that I am a good ambassador for geocaching. Maybe I am an ambassador or perhaps a diplomat. What I am not is a missionary. One might think that I missed an opportunity to introduce that couple to caching (though I have the feeling their interest would have been fleeting at best). But no. That’s not me. I know outgoing and enrapturing cachers who can draw a stranger into the beginnings of our secret world. Unfortunately, I’m not that guy. Part of me is turned off by being questioned, causing me to immediately throw up my walls. Part of me is hesitant to disturb people from their routines and activities. And another part is a little unwilling to bring others into the fold. What is the point of having a secret world if anyone and everyone has access to it? But that urge also runs counter to my belief that new blood is essential. So full of contradictions! Which title should I claim? Ambassador? Or should I try to become Evangelist? Or should I strive to become Baron Terrain? Count Multi-cache? The Pope of Chili Town?
Whatever my title, I will appear on Caching in the NorthWest tomorrow (Thursday, February 22) at 9:00 p.m. Pacific (11:00 p.m. Central)! Perhaps I shall be coronated there. Or maybe not. You won’t know if you’re not there!
Geocaching While Black 