White Knuckles, Golden Gate

My friend Divani lived just north of San Francisco and invited me out so he could show me the city. I was thrilled, until I realized the only way in meant driving across the Golden Gate Bridge. With my fear of heights, especially bridges over water, I gripped the wheel and made it across.

On the other side, the city was worth every nervous breath. We wound down Lombard Street’s famous curves, looked out over the bay to Alcatraz, and walked along Aquatic Park and the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier. North Beach was alive with murals and superheroes painted across the walls, and one wall was covered by a giant pair of bright red lips. Later, we took in the skyline from across the water, with the Golden Gate glowing red against the hills.

Seeing San Francisco through a friend’s eyes made it feel personal. Conquering that bridge made it unforgettable.