I was at a cafe in Phnom Penh, Cambodia when my friend Mafalda asked if I would like to join her on a trip to Japan. 8 Years later, I would have never guessed I would be going back a 3rd time to Okinawa.
A region I have dismissed because of its distance and accessibility. Except this time I was on a mission, a mission to maintain my long-distance relationship. (It’s still working)
I had experienced a life-altering moment in my hometown which prompted me to go out there and see my partner. In my preparation, I was nervous about meeting my partners’ family, friends, and being in a life I thought would be foreign.
After 14 hours total on two different flights and an unscathed surfboard bag, I landed in Okinawa greeted by the biggest smile and warmest hug from my partner.
The feeling I had after my first 24 hours was one of simplicity, and I don’t mean about how efficient life is, but how the people I was around captured their day, enjoyed the simple moments and lived with their hearts. It is a feeling we have all had before, but many of us still live for those simple moments, including myself.
In Okinawa, I was in the company of my partner who spent every moment with me to make sure I was comfortable. We enjoyed many activities, delicious cuisine (my favorite was pig ear or みみが), and time spent with friends and family.
Sure the water only gets as low as 72°F and it hosts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but to be in a place that makes you feel alive is what matters.
Thanks for reading.
Happy Days!
The Pushbike Surfer 