At first light in Nerang, the mountain bike trails are empty, there are just the gum trees, the squiggle of roots, and two old friends. Lisa runs in front, knowing every turn and fork. I follow, arms out like a child on a roller coaster, yelling “weeee” into the forest.

This episode drifts through the joy of letting someone else lead, and the trust that comes from twenty-five years of friendship, the odd freedom of surrendering decisions, and the reminder that sometimes the most adult thing you can do is yell like a kid in the trees.

Recorded as part of Drifting Notes, a series of short stories for walks, commutes, and late-night listening.

When was the last time you let someone else lead the way? or let yourself shout with abandon? I’d love to hear your story. Share it in the comments, or pass this episode on to the friend you’d most trust to choose the path

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit driftingnotes.substack.com