Jonathan,

I have absolutely loved reading this series, particularly your cat and lotus leaf epiphany. Each time I return from a trip, I am fearless, weightless and unassuming. After being forced to survive with little more than some money and spare clothing for weeks on end, I promise myself to follow suit when I arrive home again. But months later I find myself hauling around an oversized handbag packed full with a water bottle, tissues, credit cards, pens and multiple digital devices. I am prepared for every possible disaster - a runny nose, a maxed-out card, even a coin-operated ticket machine.. It is clear that the Western world suffers from a severe case of senseless anxiety. Travel doesn't cure us, but it is a reminder that there exists a time and a place where we can conquer it. It frees us of our baggage, albeit temporarily, hushes the cat and summons the lotus.

Reply