To Decide

To Decide. . , It took tremendous strength and resolve for a freedom seeker to decide to escape. They left behind those they loved, almost certain never to see them again. It was a long journey with no roadmap except for the stars and stories from those who had gone before. Success was not certain, but the alternative was a continued life of slavery., Freedom seekers had the courage to leave all they had known to go to places they had never been. Picture a world without the modern technologies that allow us to plan our trips with certainty. Escaping slaves had few travel tools at hand. At best, someone like Harriett Tubman might guide them north along the previously unknown paths and waterways. Most, however, had to rely on stories they had heard, sometimes from those who had been captured and returned to slavery. They left in secret, following coded messages and the North Star., The journey required strength, resourcefulness, luck and the willingness to trust unknown conductors and people along the way who might offer directions, food, or shelter. There was always someone in pursuit , someone claiming ownership or someone seeking a reward for capture. There were sounds of dogs and horses, and shouts in the night. Failing meant brutal punishment. It meant continuing a life of endless hard labor in which they were not considered human. Imagine if you, your family members, and your friends were considered property to be bought and sold. The decision to escape was one filled with risk, but also with hope for freedom.