A Night Start
After the dinner routine, a scavenger prepares for his work day. He attended to his faithful companion, the dog, and said goodbye to his wife, immersed in the domestic tasks that fill his daily life.
Thoughts on Travel
As she gets into the elevator, her reflection in the mirror reminds her of her night shift life. Mecano’s melancholic song echoes in his mind, with the story of a man who loses everything in a moment of despair. Although his story will not follow the same tragic fate, his wife has found solace in a yoga teacher, a fact that he does not know and which adds extra weight to his routine.
A Night of Work
Stepping outside, the cool night air greets him as he zips up his jacket. Getting into his truck, he embarks on a monotonous day of waste collection. The hours move slowly until he reaches a street bordering a familiar hill.
A Moment of Reflection
After emptying the cardboard container, he looks for a quiet moment and hides in the bushes to take a break. The smell of wet earth transports him back to his youth, a small pleasure that defies his reality.
An Unexpected Encounter
Resuming the route, a distraction makes him remember that his fly is unstringed. In a moment of inattention, a small figure crosses the path: a squirrel. Despite his efforts to avoid it, the vehicle takes its course and the impact is inevitable.
The Fight for Life
With a sinking heart, the scavenger gets out of the truck and carefully picks up the injured squirrel. His condition is critical, but his instinct leads him to try to save him. With a flashlight in hand, he heads for the forest, a place that offers him a brief escape from his everyday life.
A Symbolic Ascension
As he enters the forest, he feels the heaviness of his legs, but also a connection with nature. The trees seem to whisper secrets and the sky, covered with clouds, becomes a fascinating spectacle. Each step takes him higher, not only physically, but emotionally as well.
Reflections at the Summit
Once at the top, he sits on a rock and watches the city in the distance. The sky slowly transforms, and with the mobile in hand, he searches for the meaning of the squirrel. He finds an interpretation that resonates with him: to live with humor and serenity, a reminder that he needed.
A Return With New Perspectives
With a lighter heart, he starts the way back. The singing of the birds accompanies him, and once he reaches his truck, he is reminded of the little things that bring him joy. With the vehicle light flashing, he decides to stop at the bakery to buy ensaimadas, a small pleasure to share with his wife.
A Future Full of Hope
Tonight, the trip was not just a work routine, but a moment of connection with himself and the world around him. Things may change, but there is still room for wonder and beauty in your everyday life.