I'm old enough to tell stories about surfing the OBX in the 70's, driving to California and backpacking in the rockies. No cell phones, just paper maps and helpful strangers. Kindness and acceptance were commonplace. Finding an out of the way spot to sleep in your tent was a breeze. It was very different back then. Reading a map, using a compass, and asking questions were necessary to get where you were going. That immersed you in interaction with strangers in strange places. A wonderful thing. Possessing the basic skills of cooking with a backpacking stove or sterno and the means to carry something to eat and drink were helpful. Outside of urban areas you had no idea what was available. Including gasoline. Learning the hard way. A stranger, including law enforcement were likely the only solution to a breakdown. Maybe a long quiet trek if you were lucky enough to be within walking distance to an independently owned establishment miraculously placed where you needed it to be. Road tripping magic was all around you. Miracles were your sidekick, and wonderful people and acts of generosity and kindness a common occurrence. This country is full of amazing places. It's not too late…