Wanderings Begin : Lisbon
It's intriguing how swiftly I tend to internalize life's hurdles, almost as if it's second nature. Perhaps it's a lingering residue of the New Age doctrines I've absorbed over time—the idea of manifesting reality and the universe reflecting inner states.
While I acknowledge some validity in these teachings, they unravel when confronted with the stark realities of the world. It seems unfathomable to believe that those engulfed in the horrors of war have somehow manifested their own suffering. Such a notion feels not just misguided but also callous, detached from the complexities of reality.
Returning to my recent travel escapade, stepping into the airport was initially met with a collective sigh of relief among fellow travelers, a shared sense of ease amid the lingering uncertainties of the pandemic. Yet, as often occurs, the journey took an unforeseen turn with successive flight delays, each announcement adding to the mounting frustration.
In a spontaneous moment of decision, I opted for an alternate flight, narrowly avoiding a prolonged delay. Serendipitously, I struck up a conversation with a fellow passenger, forming an unexpected connection amidst the chaos of travel.
Arriving in Lisbon, I found myself only marginally delayed, though my meticulously packed bag had been left behind—a comical twist in an otherwise ordinary tale.
Despite this setback, the tranquility of the city enveloped me upon reaching my hotel, nestled by the river's edge.
With a sense of gratitude, I scattered rose petals as a humble gesture, acknowledging the peace surrounding me. Fortunately, the hotel (Lisbon Art Stay) graciously accommodated my early arrival, affording me the opportunity to settle in and acclimate to my new surroundings.
In the initial days, I found myself navigating the bustling streets and alleyways of the Alfama district, unexpectedly overwhelmed by the throngs of tourists. It took some time for my appetite to resurface, and even now, it remains somewhat subdued.
One highlight of my time here was participating in a cooking class with a local woman named Cris. Connecting with the culinary traditions and ancestral stories of the region was a truly enriching experience, one I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting Lisbon.
On the third day, I checked into an Airbnb, which unfortunately fell short of expectations. Despite attempting to rationalize staying, I couldn't shake the feeling of discomfort—an important reminder of prioritizing my mental and psychic well-being.
Promptly relocating to a charming spot near the botanical gardens provided a much-needed sense of relief. The change in scenery brought a newfound sense of tranquility, allowing me to settle in and feel at home.
However, the tranquility was short-lived as I found myself abruptly awakened in the early hours, overcome by a sudden illness. Battling bouts of sickness, I weathered through a tumultuous 24 hours, grateful for the restorative powers of 7UP and activated charcoal.
Reflecting on these experiences, I'm reminded that life is inherently unpredictable—an adventure filled with both smooth sailing and turbulent seas. Rather than viewing these challenges through a narrow lens, I embrace them as integral parts of the journey, each moment contributing to the tapestry of my life.
With Love, Naomi Love
Photos Of Lisboa
