“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” gently plays on the speakers of the little cafe I’m sitting in, while the conversation between the owner and her friend deepens. At 10:30am, the skies outside are an unbelievable clear blue and I’m feeling the beginnings of Autumn creep in.
I’m currently in Ulleung Island (울릉도), a small island about a 3 hour ferry ride away from mainland South Korea. Ideally I would be hiking at the moment but because of a foot injury from a hike a few months ago, I’m drinking Iced Peach Iced Tea and hearing the owner’s friend passionately rant about a person. It feels as though most people know each other here, which makes walking around all the more cozier.
I don’t know whether it’s because I have been at home 99% of the time, or because I don’tmake time for myself anymore, but I’ve been feeling tired, desperate/excited to talk with any one or any animal, and scared to go out alone. Today, I took the public bus from the nearby bus stop and made my way to Lotto & Coffee. It felt fantastic going out alone, and somehow the air feels lighter and fresher (but I suppose that’s a natural feeling when you’re outside of South Korea).
It feels fantastic to have come out, walk around, and slowly take it all in. I gave myself a slow morning, and let myself enjoy my book while drinking something I enjoy. My mind feels less cluttered and my body feels at ease. It’s so easy to forget to stop and take a moment for yourself.
I’m just about done with my drink, and I can’t wait to walk around this little downtown area with the aim of just enjoying my time and company. I hope you, my dear friend, remember to take a moment that is all your own.