Lost the Plot?

"When you travel, you experience, in a very practical way, the act of rebirth. You confront completely new situations, the day passes more slowly, and on most journeys you don't even understand the language the people speak. So you are like a child just out of the womb. You begin to attach much more importance to the things around you because your survival depends upon them. You begin to be more accessible to others because they may be able to help you in difficult situations. And you accept any small favor from the gods with great delight, as if it were an episode you would remember for the rest of you life.

At the same time, since all things are new, you see only the beauty in them, and you feel happy to be alive."

from "The Pilgrimage" by Paulo Coelho

Currently I'm in Bellingen, home of David Helfgott. (For those of you uncertain who that brilliant mind is please rent "Shine".) It's laundry time and I'm enjoying the bliss of being a sloth with a book and some leaf-filtered sunshine.

Tonight I'm out to discover some local acoustic talent at the Cool Creek Cafe. This place is relaxed and alternative. The people walk slowly, even if they have a place to go. The shops are enveloped in the felt creatures and garments of crafty Steiner mothers. The windows all offer yoga, meditation and tribal drum experiences. Bright, rainbow birds sing determinedly. I miss home.