When I set foot back on the mainland, I was too disoriented and jet lagged to realize the gravity of my life decision. I had left a place so near and dear to my heart. Two short years had brought intense transformation, growth and lifelong friendships (the ones that make you believe in multiple lifetimes). I left this place in order to find new opportunity, but also because i had taken enough from the island by spending two years on it. It was time to properly thank this sacred place and move on.

Life back on the mainland felt ( still does) like trying to gasp for air on another planet. The constant loud sounds, smells and energy of a more densely populated place had me realizing how accustomed I had now become to solitude. I would now notice the humming of the air coming through the air vents. The buzzing of a power generator, sitting atop power lines half a block away. Hell, even the sound of planes flying over my apartment and think, “does anyone else notice how stimulating all of this is?” The lack of ocean had me taking hot baths 7 days a week, as if hot water was a substitute for salt water. A trip to NYC, two trips to Los Angeles, multiple falling outs with people from a past life. And i realized, im just not the same anymore, there’s no turning back. But, that’s a beautiful thing.

Presence, is a state of being that is touted in society as an unattainable super power. But in reality, it should be the most easily attainable state of consciousness in the world, because it’s who we are at our root. I feel that presence every day and I’m thankful for it. I’m thankful for the experiences I’ve had, and I’m thankful for what comes next.

Love,
Blake C