I ran away once. Gathered a bandana like a hobo, with a few supplies, and my map of the United States with my Einstein stamp over Los Angeles; I was going to Hollywood. I was eleven. It was dark and Mom and Dad were asleep. I recall opening the front door, leaving and locking it after me to keep them safe.

I was terrified and excited. I’d never walked alone at night in my home town of Charlottesville Virginia. I headed towards Rugby Rd where a friend lived. A man in a car slowed beside me and asked if I wanted a ride. I said no thanks and kept walking. He drove away. I dove behind the bushes and hid in fear. Then I turned around and headed back home. Somehow the door was unlocked! We never discussed that night.

I guess, in truth, I ran away twice. The second time I stayed.