Sheeka Sanahori

USA TODAY

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Jasmine Reese didn't have much money in her pocket when she left with a bike, her violin, and her dog. She hadn't been happy with the direction her life was going, so she decided to do something that would boost her confidence.



Her idea was something most people would consider drastic. She biked across the country, from New York to San Francisco, relying on the kindness of strangers for meals and accommodations.



In return, she gave people music and friendship. Reese played her violin in the homes of countless people from coast to coast.



"I've met hundreds of people and all of them have left such an amazing impression on me because they took a stranger and her dog into their homes, fed her and let her become a part their families for that moment in time," Reese said. "There are people who surprised me, and I learned not to try to presume to know a person based on outer appearances."



There was an elderly woman in Colorado who showed off her antique cars to Reese. And a man who lives in an immaculately furnished shipping container. Reese is regularly surprised by the kindness of strangers.



Her bicycle tour has been a constant lesson for her in getting out of her comfort zone to meet new people and play music for them.



Although Reese has had to stop cycling recently due to joint pain, she has no plans to stop moving. In August, she's planning to ride a trike around the world, starting with Asia.

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