Recognize Hitchhikers

Two score and five years ago , hitchhikers were not uncommon along the road. They were very easy to recognize. Typically they wore fairly rugged garb, such as an army coat. They frequently fashioned heavy facial hair. They were almost always accompanied by a duffel bag. These were tell-tale visual signs of a hitchhiker. In addition to the seemingly consistent uniform they sported, they also utilized a common tool in a unique way; clarifying their intentions and expectations.

The thumb.

The thumb publicly displayed the hitchhikers open intentions and expectations:

Hitchhikers believe they are free and independent from commitment and perhaps certain responsibilities.
Hitchhikers expect a free ride.
Hitchhikers intend to ride with you only for the limited time they will benefit.
Hitchhikers have no intentions to support the needs of your journey.

In the hitchhiker’s request for a free ride, it may not seem that they ask for much, but they offer even less in return. Since they use their thumb to identify their intentions, the passing drivers have a clear choice to accept or pass on the hitchhiker’s offer to engage in a relationship.

Some drivers see the thumb and simply decide to give. They provide the hitchhiker a free ride and do not accept anything in return. Total strangers. One asking, another giving. By choice, with understanding.

The thumb. I miss it.

Not all hitchhikers use their thumb these days. Without the thumb, what defines the intentions and expectations of the your possible travel companions? Do you intend to share your journey with the hitchhiker? It’s your choice.

Recognize hitchhikers. Some may not clarify their intentions with their thumb. Understand that their primary goal is merely a temporary ride. Accept that their purpose in your travel is to obtain a free ride. Choose the best travel companions in which to share your journey.

Discern. Accept. Choose.