I arrived in Montpellier on a beautiful, foggy afternoon after a relaxing two-and-a-half-hour train ride from Marseille. I was so excited about my journey that sitting in an assigned seat against the direction of the moving train didn't bother me, although I get motion sickness quickly. It was a notable observation of how the satisfaction of being in the moment is vital to my overall mood and well-being. I've reached a fresh understanding of the saying, "It's the journey, not the destination," and its profound significance.
Leaving my friends in the reflective, beautiful city of La Ciotat was hard; still, I was enthusiastic to explore my new destination and see how much I remembered from almost thirty years ago. I wanted to examine how I would feel about the current picture and vibe of the city.
Montpellier effortlessly blends the best of both worlds. It boasts the grandeur reminiscent of Paris, with landmarks like the Promenade De Peyro and the Arc De Triomphe, while embracing Provence's charm and offering a more Mediterranean climate. I stayed in a cozy hotel near a residential area within walking distance from the center of the happenings, shops, and famous plaza, "Place de la Comédie." My room was much larger—and more affordable than the one in Paris. It was bright and had a comfortable large bed.
The simplicity of white sheets and minimal surroundings make me calm. I've noticed that too many things around me can be overwhelming and cloud my thoughts. I liked my room and the beautiful greens I could see through my window, adorned with soft beige linen curtains.
I started my mornings with my daily walk to the center, grabbing a mouthwatering, affordable croissant and coffee. The stroll involved passing through the charming park of "Jardin Du Champ De Mars," colorful city trams, and many creperies and cafes, stepping up and down stone-covered stairs. Very scenic. It made me feel alive!
On Sunday, a local book fair was held to exchange, buy, and sell old books. I found the beloved series of books, "Adventure of TinTin," which defined my childhood reading. It felt like strolling down memory lane. Every step became a passage through my past. The setting for this delightful reunion was a beautiful promenade surrounded by tall trees and an enchanting park view, enhancing the overall experience.
There was a mixture of sadness and nostalgia, yet it motivated me to do something that truly defined me upon my return. It felt liberating to identify with my true self. Traveling solo, I often can't help but yearn for the company of a friend, family member, or, ideally, a partner—especially in the enchanting backdrop of such a romantic city. Despite this, I consciously shifted my focus away from the typical negativity I often experience in the Bay Area. Instead, I embraced the possibilities and positive aspects of the moment, recognizing the significance of simply being there and immersing myself in the experience.
I discovered more than ever that when my surroundings align with my inner being, I get in touch with a new dimension of myself. Despite my challenges and conflicts, I remembered how happy I was there almost thirty years ago.
I could refine that version of myself, disentangling my anxiety about my career and success from the inner sense of satisfaction and joy from the simple beauty surrounding me. I sacrificed my true happiness in pursuit of an unknown promised success. The experience of revisiting South France and my long-lost memories illuminated how I've been navigating my emotions, anticipating fresh adventures, carving out aspirations, and finding abundant joy and fulfillment. If I had understood this back then, I would never have left to pursue success somewhere else. I belonged there. I could’ve attended university in France and pursued my true passion—art.
I recently came across a great book, "Build the Life You Want, by Oprah and Arthur Brooks," which discusses how our emotions serve as valuable cues, offering the information necessary to respond appropriately and take control of our lives. Happiness, in turn, emerges from discovering enjoyment and meaning in our actions and being grateful daily, which ultimately culminates in a sense of satisfaction. I relived that sensation there.
The inspiration led me to find a group of ex-pats in Montpellier, a few residents, artists, and digital nomads. Connecting with them was an enriching experience as we shared meals and exchanged stories, providing valuable insights and lessons from each other's diverse journeys.
“The only constant thing in life is change. All things pass, and nothing stays, and comparing existing things to the flow of a river, you could not step twice into the same river." -Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher.
Regrets are nonexistent; instead, we uncover lessons learned and embrace gratitude for discovering ourselves, regardless of how belatedly we arrive at that self-awareness. Success is driven by satisfaction, meaning, and purpose in our lives, not vice versa.