Saying Goodbyes...

I wrote a poem about this ... but it’s so heavy on my heart... especially as I sit here overlooking the view at what has become “my spot” ... listening to the ocean waves... thinking about this last week, how fast it has gone by and how it’s already time to go.... I literally came to this little beach town to learn to surf ... however, I got hurt within the first two days limiting my physical ability to do much... so instead of focusing on what I couldn’t do - I settled into a groove with what I could .... people here are so damn kind... the locals from my guest house let me borrow their bike everyday and night ALL week long so I can stay off my foot and don’t have to walk, but can still get around. Another local from my guest house took me to the doctors to have my foot looked at, kept me safe, translating for me and everything. Another local spends his time sitting with me for hours teaching me jewelry. The kindness and generosity of people here doesn’t end. I cruise the sidewalk and meet and talk to various other locals - learning their craft - enjoy an afternoon in a cafe teaching someone a card game and playing cards - sitting over coffee having a wonderful chat about life. Joining the “crowd” and cozying up on a rock in the sand every evening to take in the magic of an El Tunco sunset - which doesn’t get old... watching people play, surf, and stand in awe, as they try to capture that perfect picture. Every day is filled with this balance of peacefulness and tranquility, laughter and smiles.
Today is my last day here and this makes me sad. Saying goodbye is literally the hardest part I have experienced of this traveling journey. I spent a month with a stomach bug, and still have belly issues every few days. I have now hurt my foot and couldn’t walk a week, had some terrible, exhausting shuttle rides, less then favorable work trades, and despite these circumstances saying goodbye to beautiful souls over and over remains the hardest part. And it doesn’t get easier - perhaps just gets harder. There are some people who’s paths I will cross again, but many connections will be simply memories to hold dear. It’s just truly hard, although I get it’s a part of the journey .. but prior to this trip, this would never been what I guessed would be the challenging part. I’ve met some absolutely wonderful people, and feel so blessed, both fellow travelers and locals mixed ... people I felt truly understood by, connected to, in such a short time... it’s honestly beautiful and awesome. I am eternally grateful for each moment, each connection each memory created. It’s only been a short time in my new “home” (my heart) away from home ... and I’ve already had all these amazing people cross my path- I can’t even begin to imagine who and what is still to come!!! This journey is in honor of all the beautiful souls on the road - living life - from close and far, no matter where they are, whether or not we reconnect - the imprint they made will never been forgotten. Them and of course my forever one true love, Mowgli, who is with me everywhere I go❤️