Finding Paradise
![]() |
My newest friends, in the Cambodian countryside |
Hello my beautiful friends, how is life these days? Mar7aba habibis, kifak il-yom? Oi! Tudo bom com voce? Hola queridos amigos, como estan estos dias? It’s been a lovely few months for me and I hope it has been for you as well. I have much to share with you, now where to begin?
On November 12, I turned 25 years old and it couldn’t have been any sweeter! I celebrated with my wonderful friends and loved ones at a cool-cat cigar bar in San Francisco. That night, I had everything I adore: my amazing friends--who sang happy birthday in Portuguese (parabens), a yummy slice of some chocolate cake, crisp French champagne, a stout Cohiba cigar (Maduro 5, straight from Havana) and an overflow of the finest Mexican tequila!
With best friend on my birthday |
The next day was quite unbearable for me, as I had a headache and stomach ache--but it was worth it! Luckily, it didn’t last all day and I was able to prepare myself for my newest adventure. Two days later, I was off to Phnom Penh, Cambodia! I was greeted with the most delightful warm rain, unlike the cold showers I have experienced in the United States. My body was feeling a tad thrown off...I was 15 hours in the future and only slept a few hours. But who has time for sleep when there is a world to discover?! I visited local markets, Buddhist temples and enjoyed various foods. Everything was fascinating and nothing came close to the beauty of the smiling Cambodians. The beauty of a smile is that it is universally understood and is powerful enough to break barriers.
All of my life, I have been searching for Paradise and it was the lovely Cambodian people who taught me that Paradise is found within ourselves. Although we did not speak the same language, they were always kind and friendly towards me. All of our lives are different, some more turbulent than others, yet we have much to live for. A big thank you to French photographer, Greg Mo, for showing me the countryside and helping me visit local schools. The schools themselves weren’t much to see, but the kids were adorable and inspirational. They were all smiles and they welcomed me--it was as if I was catching up with my long lost friends. I am striving to contribute to a better world for these kids, they deserve it!
School kids |
For Thanksgiving and Christmas, I spent a few days on California’s Central Coast, which is where I grew up. It’s always sweet to see the people who knew you since you were a kid and love you unconditionally. They make me realize how much we have grown as people. It’s bittersweet to see my uncles now...there were 7 of them, my mom’s brothers, whom helped raise me alongside my grandparents. I awe at seeing the fine lines on their faces and a more weary demeanor, but their smiles all the same. I often wonder if any of them ever suffered through melancholy periods such as the ones I constantly face. Alas, it’s not something we speak much of because of our Latin culture, where feelings and desires are not meant to be discussed so willingly. They inspire me to do good for the world, as they have shown me immense kindness and love, far beyond that required by an uncle. They always made sure I had life’s necessities, even if it meant to lack something for themselves.
The magnificent Colosseum |
After a joyous reunion, I bid my friends and family farewell, as I had a rendezvous with Italy! I arrived in Rome and I quickly felt the Roman romance and charm! Of course, I did all the touristy things, as well as hung out in speakeasies and local trattorias with my hosts and new friends. I also ensured to spend time alone, as I appreciate my solitude. It is when I am alone with the world, that I have my greatest revolutionary thoughts!
Rome was captivating and soon after, I was off to Palermo, Sicily! The Sicilians made me feel like the most significant person in the world! More so than the Cubans or the French! It was their constant smile and efforts. For example, a well known restaurant was booked with reservations for weeks, but they had me come in during closed hours to serve me! Wow, what a great gesture! Having worked in hospitality here in the States, we wouldn’t have done that...not for one person alone.
I spent the next few days there, including New Year’s Day, and in the company of captivating people. I was able to ponder about the universe here more easily and about my home country, the United States. My goal for this year and in life, is to be a better person than the day before. I want to become more compassionate and demonstrate integrity in my actions. Most of all, I never want to stop learning! I want to learn about anything and everything! Especially languages and how to drive stick shift, hehehe.
Mondello Beach, Sicily |
Although the prosciutto and burrata were divine in Sicily, I bid adieu to it for a quick pit-stop in Barcelona, Spain! Frankly, I went to Barcelona specifically for the churros, tapas and Pikolions (Spanish shoe brand). I got all of that and discovered more of this intriguing place. I finally made it to the Picasso museum and he certainly challenged my perspective on life and relationships to be specific. I wish he was still here, so we may have discussed our intellectual curiosities and the role of our carnal desires, whether they are essential...roadblocks or breakthroughs? (He should have some clue, since he had numerous relationships/affairs).
Tapas @ La Boqueria Mercat |
I was also on the lookout for Manu Chao! He is one of my favorite artists and his music has always soothed my soul. The locals tell me he hangs around El Barrio Gothico (Gothic Neighborhood) and I visited a few bars there. Honestly, after a few sangrias and cavas, with many people and cheerfulness, I wouldn’t have known what to say...next time for sure! I specifically want to discuss my upcoming trip he has inspired me to take...to drive a motorcycle from Panama to Argentina, passing by Colombia, Brasil and Bolivia! (Ok, maybe Che Guevera also deserves credit) This would be done on a smaller bike, a Honda 100cc or 125 cc. I am also considering purchasing an older VW Rabbit for the journey, as my back hurt while riding over the Cambodian countryside for a day--imagine a few weeks!
I have always desired to accomplish meaningful achievements in my life and now, I know I must. Not for myself, as I would also be happy living on a Cuban beach in a little bungalow, but for this world that I madly love; for all of my friends, old and new, for my family and all those who have loved me! I do not have vast wealth or beauty to offer this world, but I have this passion and perseverance! I am eternally grateful for all of you. Words could never express my appreciation, thank you for this charming life! Stay sane and humble!
![]() |
With some of my lovely friends |
Awesome post love the way you travel!
ReplyDelete