Midway along the column and history-filled path a couple of dogs interrupted my psychosomatic connection to the distant past and drew my attention back to the present. Fretting turned out not to be necessary, though, as the dogs wanted to play. One of the little guys joined me along the road for a while.
My four legged partner and I passed cascading fountains in front of the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (The Blue Mosque), the immense Hagia Sophia, and remnant original walls of Topkai Palace. My canine companion turned back when I entered the business and residential district of the Bosphorus Straight. I must admit the buildings there lacked the majesty of the At Meydanı and Sultan Ahmet Square.
As I had six days earlier, I set out to leave the southeast corner of Europe for a brief trip into Asia. Crossing the popular blue bridge proved easier before sunrise. I enjoyed the sights and sounds of the water that divides two great land masses. Once in Asia I crossed the street and returned on the other side of the bridge, which to my surprise was much livelier than its counterpart.
Fishermen built makeshift stoves out of cardboard boxes. Well-placed slits and multiple holes allowed the fire to breathe and burn kindling without consuming the box itself, quite ingenious I thought. As I logged my own mental images many of the anglers looked at me as if I, too, was a cultural novelty in the moment.
The road back and last leg of my intercontinental run mirrored the trek out, complete with barking dogs. Originally, I went to Turkey to see a couple of items in a museum and visit historical ruins. I found those and much more in this incredibly beautiful country. I saw, I learned, I ran, and now it all had come to an end. At the door of the hotel I removed my headphones and looked around this tremendous city. Just as I did, the day’s first call to prayer began. I prayed.
I thank God for the amazing world around us. I thank God for running.
Tom
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