Growing Up

On my way back to Houston, as usual, I opened my carry-on book to read. I love reading. Each time I read, not only can I admire the beauty of literature, but also learn the authors' experience and the knowledge they try to convey. Sometimes, the problem they thought and tried to figure out is exactly the one that I encountered.

“A Movable Feast?” asked by an old man who sit next to me.

“No, it’s The Old Man and the Sea.” I smiled.

“Do you like it?” He kept asking.

“Yes, especially his concise description. His word is really powerful and impressive.” I said. “Did you also read this before?”

“Of course, many times. I also like it.”

The old man was gentle and friendly. He is a retired professor and was on his way back to Paris. We talked a lot in the following four hours.

“Do you like to live in Texas?” he asked.

“No, of course not. After I visit here I realize that I like San Francisco more.” I said, “In the past week I stayed in Stanford with my friends.”

“I taught literature and art in Stanford for a while.” He said. “But it’s not an easy job. You know. There are full of eccentric geeks.”

We both laughed.

Then I asked him the life in Paris, a city I desire to visit, and the places he had ever been to. I was acting like a child full of curiosity. He told me San Francisco is the best city he has ever lived in the U.S. He also encouraged me to find a job in CA after I finish my degree.

I even didn’t know his name. But we had a happy conversation. When arrived Houston, we shook hands and said goodbye. Then I watched his back disappeared in the crowd. In this trip, I met several different people and got several valuable ideas. It’s so nice to travel around. I love travel!