Disorder and chaotic would be apt words to describe Chiang Mai upon first arriving. It can be difficult to navigate as paths abruptly end or are met with a shopfront or just a big hole in the ground. Keeping alert is essential to avoid breaking a leg on your first day. But it would be incorrect to use these words. In the traffic, there appears to be no set rules, yet there is a rythym and a strong awareness between drivers. This is true in more ways than one, and the closer you look, the more you doscover the rythym and pattern.
I really have fallen in love with Chiang Mai, our time has been much shorter than I’d like. I’ve met an Australian, Indian and an American (who are all of Indian heritage!) and each one has been incredible to get to know. I’m writing this now on my last night here in the hopes that I can capture what I’m feeling and remember it forever, though I know this is an impossible wish.
I met the first at a cooking class, we ended up cooking quite similar dishes and became friends. He instilled confidence in me that I sort of knew was somewhere, but it rarely surfaces. Our conversations inspire me to explore south east asia more thoroughly and with a yearning to connect with the culture by not being afraid to take more risks. I learned that I love live music as we created our own bar crawl through old town, with a combination of slow melodious music, head banging rock jazz and the conversion of classic songs like Stand By Me into the best rock songs I’ve ever heard. He taught me how to make the most of solo travel and make friends of all ages.
He introduced me to another Indian travelling the world after retirement. I don’t know how this is so possible, but we connected without any effort and became good friends too. When I visit Mumbai, I must remember to contact him.
Lastly, as a farewell to this lovely city, I spent the evening with the most interesting person I think I’ve ever met in my life. It feels like she has lived multiple lives. We talked about politics, religion, spirituality, adventure, aspirations, purpose, and so much more. Time floated by and I got so lost in the moment, I almost forgot I had to leave in the morning. I have learned so much from her, including things about myself and she inspires me to explore the world and also within. I may not understand my purpose or what future lies ahead, but I will strive to live virtuously and with conviction. The most important thing I took away was that it isn’t selfish to do what you need to do to take care of yourself if it means being able to add more value to your life and those around you.
I look forward to when our paths meet again 🙂
As for Chiang Mai, I’ll definitely see you again.