With a turn of fate we left Istanbul to find ourselves back in her arms before the end of the day. With all the mishaps the message is clear: We’re not to be in Antakya as planned. Who can say if this is a good or bad thing. Stranded or not, I have come to believe in fate and not to scorn it.
Six dogs the size of German Shepherds appeared as we made our way back to our hotel. Two walked beside me. Two in the back and one in front. One hopped along a little way in the back. When I crossed the cobblestone street slowly with my luggage they waited patiently for me. As I walked, my right hand nearly touched a nose. It gave a soft growl and backed up a little.
With my entourage we arrived at our hotel. The dogs sat down in attention until the hotel’s night manager opened the door.
“Thank you.” I turned to them. They watched us go in before they wagged their tails and took off.
“Many dogs in Istanbul.” The manager said.
Many night guardians in the city of mosques.
photo credit: wideawakeinwonderland.com/tag/istanbul-marathon/
