My Inner Goddessssss

Reaching the end of three weeks spent not only in Bali yet specifically within Ubud is quite a mental shock. Time seemed unable to touch our days here as we passed through life balancing yoga class and massage time or smoothies and a good spiritual chat. Yet, somehow, our escape has been thwarted. Today served as the first farewell for one of the dear friends I made here in Ubud. With his absence, the brutal reminder that we are all leaving soon became apparent. After traveling out of a backpack for several months, having a place and experience like Bali can be addictive. Trading dorm rooms and late night weekend travelers for monthly priced villas and lasting friendships can be an enticing upgrade. However, true to traveler nature, the comfort becomes uncomfortable. My familiarity with Ubud is strong and I feel very much at home here. The culture, the people, the food, my friends; All of it reminds me of my university town and elsewhere that I’ve lived. Sure, these last three weeks have been a highlight of my travel days. Nonetheless, I must throw myself back into uncertainty and the unknown.

With that acceptance, I do find myself already observing my days and the hustle of Ubud with an air of nostalgia. As if I’m already not present and am recalling a memory. A great many things can be classified as being only Ubud or an “Ubudian” culture. Hearing conversations about “My inner Goddess was finally released” or “I just need to recognize my Divine self” from the table next to me during lunch will of course be missed. Healers, Chakra alignments, past life regressions and various meditation techniques (included being cleansed by an aqua goddess… aka having water splashed on you while sleeping) are all stories and unique experiences that have been invigorating and sometimes humorous to listen to.

Outside of the yogi culture of Ubud, Bali’s true heartbeat is one of beauty and hospitality. A daytrip to Lake Batur resulted in Lilah and I meeting all sorts of locals. Some were spending the Sunday having a family picnic while another group was the staff of a gay bar that wants us to come bartend for a night; All so friendly, curious, welcoming and genuine. Even while walking around a small fishing village, the people were so curious by us (as this was not a tourist area) that they began walking around behind us and following. Eventually, the father asked if we’d like to kayak on the lake. Soon, Lilah and I were each in our own small wooden boats with the men of the village paddling us around their fishing area. The grandfather sang Indonesia’s National Anthem and the whole family made our day one of the best yet.

The list of beautiful experiences I’ve had in Bali is truly limitless. I am thankful for all the wonderful people, sights, culture, food and knowledge that I’ve been fortunate enough to have in my life over these last few weeks. With one week left, I plan to reflect and absorb as much more as I can. Always retaining the intention of one day returning to this Indonesian Eden. Although Thailand is labeled the Land of Smiles, I think Bali is a better contestant for that crown.