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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.
