Off the plane and out of the airport, the humid air wraps me in her warm embrace. The sun is bright, really bright, and feels so lovely on my skin. The smell of incense and frangipani and clove cigarettes fills my lungs, as familiar faces welcome me back to a place that, at one time, felt so incredibly unfamiliar…
And although this place is foreign and exotic and literally on the opposite side of the world from my home, it has become rather comforting, in a way… Like the peacefulness that comes from a slow, deep breath, or that feeling you get when you hug a loved one you haven’t seen in a while…
It’s been a year and a lot has changed, but the magic remains unwavering. Mama Bali, I’m so grateful to be in your presence again, and I’m looking forward to all you hold in store <3