On a rainy morning in the Sierras, as the ski season drew to a close, it felt more like a time for relaxed dining than hitting the slopes. Observing one individual monopolizing a four-top table in a crowded restaurant, I invited a fellow diner, who seemed to be searching for a place to sit, to join me. He arrived with an impressively large breakfast burrito, a substantial piece of coffee cake, and a blended drink that resembled a vast container. To my surprise, he mentioned he was dining alone and just very hungry.
My companion and I were in the midst of a spring trip, transitioning from skiing in Colorado to biking in the mountains and deserts. My friend Ellie remained in our camper parked nearby, using Wi-Fi while I sought a more reliable connection inside the restaurant. I welcomed the quiet, anticipating that the man’s ample meal would ensure he remained focused on his food.
After a spell of silence, I initiated conversation, asking about his background and sharing my thoughts on the wet weather. I remarked, “With that breakfast, you must have an exciting day ahead.” He explained that he wouldn’t be skiing, as he was a chaperone for a group of high school students who had just spent a challenging week on their ski trip and he was heading home shortly.
He then shared that the week had been particularly difficult due to the loss of one of the students, who tragically fell down a flight of stairs. I expressed my condolences and inquired about how the remainder of the group was coping. He conveyed that they were handling the situation remarkably well, stemming comfort from their strong belief that their friend was in a better place.
The conversation took a serious turn as I decided to ask him a profound question, wondering if he truly believed the child was in a better place, to which he responded with unwavering confidence. Although he had once been skeptical, he found great happiness and fulfillment in his current perspective on life. He explained that such beliefs brought him solace amidst life’s unfair aspects.
Curious about my own beliefs, he inquired if I shared his conviction. While I expressed my wish to, I admitted to having doubts akin to those of the apostle Thomas. As the conversation wrapped up, he thanked me for my company and expressed hope that I would one day arrive at the same certainty he held.
Before he departed, he offered me the untouched piece of coffee cake with a bright smile. Our brief conversation left me reflecting on the comfort derived from belief, regardless of its veracity. As I bid him farewell, I quoted a classic song, acknowledging the shared human experience of searching for meaning and solace.