Sunflower Stop

 It's over now, this chapter of my story. I came to South Africa with one small plan to see the land, spirit, and people. I never would have imagined this... finding peace with time. To learn the importance of acceptance, how to make people feel seen as well as heard. I have allowed my heart to lead and my head to follow after. 

I started in Wilderness, and yes, that is the name of the village. It's along the Garden Route. At first, I was beyond nervous. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect, and I felt like a silly imposter or a kid playing dress up. But now I can officially say, it's real. I am a backpacker ! I am a solo traveler. I have seen, I have heard, and I have touched and tasted South Africa. I thought maybe I had ridden it, but it rode me harder, allowing me to open my eyes. 

Wilderness and I are friends, and there are moments were I wonder if I will ever come back... to be honest, I don't know. It's exactly the same with certain people I have met. That's the thing about solo traveling: you never know when it will be your last hello. 

I will remember people, but no one else will know our stories. It's my own little piece that won't be understood. People will try and understand, but they won't get it until they have traveled and packed a backpack, and booked a one-way flight. 

I have read old entries in my journal to see how and what has been. I can smile at the moments, and for a moment, my heart feels tight knowing that for some, it will be the first and last time I ever see them again. 

Don't take it for granted, the first hello, the sharing of a meal. The energy of two people sharing this one life.