My First Night Sleeping in a Walmart Parking Lot

I'll never forget the first night I slept in a Walmart parking lot. I was traveling west on I-20 near Sweetwater, Texas, and as darkness approached, I pulled off the interstate into the crowded lot of a Super Walmart.

Nervous and unsure, I parked mid-way to the entrance like I always do for grocery shopping. But this time was different. I was embarking on a new journey, and this Walmart would be my refuge for the night.

I spotted a friendly security officer in his 50s driving around and stopped him to ask permission to stay overnight, assuring him I'd leave at the crack of dawn. His warm welcome made me feel safe and secure.

Locking my van doors and putting up my blackout curtain, I tucked into my cozy bed, exhausted from battling the heavy Dallas traffic and blaring sun. The officer's kindness and the familiarity of Walmart put me at ease.

The next morning, I drove away rested and ready to tackle another 400 miles through the western U.S. That first night in a Walmart lot taught me that even in unfamiliar places, a little kindness and courage go a long way.