The Potential Within

Whale Watching in Byron Bay

Theme Songs of the Day:

Remember Me - Blue Boy (this song is for you, Alice)
Go It Alone – Beck, from the Album Guero

…

After spending many months with friends travelling through the vast and varying country of Australia, I find myself craving some ‘me’ time.  I’m ready to venture out on my own for a bit. 

On a contradictory note: this entire journey has been an individual one – there’s no denying that.

I am choosing my direction as I go and I’m making decisions on a daily basis that point me towards the light at the end of the tunnel; whatever trail my intuition deems best at the time.  With a few exceptions this had lead me to meet up with people I have known previously: the luxury of a large network of friends – I’m very grateful.  I have been able to get to know these special people so much better because of the time we’ve shared…the places we’ve ventured to together.   I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

Now it’s time for me to do some exploring without the harness.  It wasn’t long ago that the idea of venturing out on my own created some anxiety.  Although I do feel strong and independent, I have low moments.  It’s at these times when I have really relied on the support and understanding of friends – new and old – I’ve needed that support.

I have now reached a point where I trust myself to get through the rough patches without a safety net.  The lone traveler makes decisions on a whim without consulting anyone.  They are alone – but only as alone as they want to be.  Another potential friend is never too far away; it never takes long to meet good people, if you’re open to it.  Saying this, there’s no substitution for long-term friends that know you inside and out.  Confiding in strangers is easy and you may get some interesting and poignant perspective, but it doesn’t hold the weight of a hug from a good friend when you need it.

The most Eastern Point in OZ - Byron Bay

My last week in Australia was bitter-sweet.  I had some quality time with my buddies in Brisbane and had a blast down in Byron Bay with the girls.  We saw some kick@ss live music (True Live) and when we weren’t chillin’ on the beach and wandering the town’s haunts, we were out on the water, watching humpbacks do their thing – a great last hurrah before my departure.

When we got home I realized how I have really come to associate Brisbane with ‘home’.   I will miss it, but I will be back.

New Zealand: land of the long white cloud.… I sensed an adventure when I made the booking, and I haven’t been disappointed so far.   Trying new things, meeting locals – this is excellent.   I have made some new friends and I have fallen for NZ in a big way.  Life is good….great, actually.

Looking up at Mt. Hutt, Canterbury