Hi there,
I am writing to you from the States. Tea next to me. Things fermenting in my head and my heart.
I have been spending less and less time in front of the computer writing. My body is rejecting screens and machines. I am mostly in nature, with animals and people.
2024 started with a weird and awkward New Year’s Eve at my friend’s house. She seemed like a different person. We didn’t have the chance to talk about it. The direct result of this incident led me to staying at another friend’s family house. There were three cats when I came. One got put down yesterday. Sad and beautiful. In between the death of a cat, and a potential friendship breakup, I met someone from Iran. He’s kind, smart and attentive. I went on refreshing winter walks. I hugged and hugged the people and animals I love. I ate yummy Mexican food. I tried the float spa – not my thing.
How’s your new year so far?
I don’t remember if I shared that I will be a nomad for a while. It is a good change for me. I enjoy it so far. I will be in the East coast until mid February. Then I go on a week of silent meditation retreat. After that, no cemented plans yet. Perhaps some place warm. My friend from Hong Kong will be visiting the States in late February. A short trip with her would be great too.
Boys and romance often picks people’s interests. We are wired for connection and love. I watched a talk by Esther Perel. It talked about artificial intimacy. Technology is removing frictions in life to make things more convenient. It is also making us feel more disconnected and lonelier. Few things can replace experiencing life with our senses.
I don’t want long-distance relationships. I want a travel partner. Regardless of how things pan out, I am finally doing something I’ve wanted to do since I was 19 – vagabonding.
Nothing is more important than being who I am and living the life I want, partnered or not.
More next time.
Love,
Xiaoyu
