Monday, 5th of June
This young carpet salesman approaches me and seems very excited to see a European tourist walking across Naqsh-e-Jahan square in Isfahan. We have a conversation over some cay. He tells me about his struggles. More than a week since the last sale. Not many tourists to buy carpets. The sanctions are hitting the people of Iran hard. He asks me about my philosophy as a traveler. Of course it is his dream to travel the world as well. But, to put it in his own words „it’s far away. There’s not many opportunities here.“ Another one that hits deep.
Tuesday, 6th of June
Expectations. So dangerous and yet so hard to eliminate. Why do I expect certain outcomes from certain things? Why do I expect people to behave in a certain way? Even though I am aware that most outcomes and certainly the behaviour of others is completely out of my control. And why the hell do I still get disappointed despite that awareness?
that’s exactly why going with the flow is a great alternative to making too many plans. „Want to go to Dream Land?“ – „Sure, why not?“ Did I have expectations of an Iranian amusement park? Zero! Did I have a great time? Absolutely. If it weren’t for the expectations for today.
Wednesday, 7th of June
My time in Isfahan has now seriously come to an end. I spent so much time here because I listened to my heart. A choice that has changed my plan, changed my whole journey. But then again, don’t all choices in our lives influence our journeys one way or another? Does it make sense to reflect on a choice that you make with your heart? Because if I do and I am honest to myself, there are short moments of regret. Is regret a feeling I should allow myself to feel?on the other hand: I know I wouldn’t be where I am or who I am without that decision. I probably wouldn’t have met some of the amazing people I met without that decision. And I’m very grateful of that. I interpret that as a sign that my heart is showing me the way out of dualistic thinking. With light there’s shadow. With gratitude there’s regret. Our human experience is full of such false dichotomies. And understanding that more and more is a beautiful part of this journey! And my heart knows.
