This morning I woke up to the sound of rustling leaves from a big tree next to my bedroom window, evoking a sense of nostalgia that transported me back to the cherished moments of my childhood. Assuring me that my passion for traveling blossomed in those precious years, setting the stage for a lifelong love affair with exploration and adventure.
When we were kids, my father often took us on summer vacations. One of the places we traveled to was the city of Mashhad, the capital of the Khorasan province, located in northeastern Iran. This city is renowned for its cultural, historical, and religious significance, attracting visitors from all around the world.
During my father's higher education program, he took university classes there. Luckily, my mother had the summer off as a school principal, so she could offer her support and spend quality time with us while my dad was busy. Although it was a difficult compromise for my parents, it ended up being a win-win situation that benefited all of us.
On the weekends, we would visit nearby attractions, parks, and beautiful nature in the suburb. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Mashhad offers beautiful nature to explore with its scenic wonders. One of those places, Torghabeh, is a picturesque village known for its lush greens and natural springs. Also, the nearby Shandiz offers stunning mountain views and is a popular spot for picnics.
I loved those places and have some of my best childhood memories there. The smell of divine food and crackling fire under the kebobs, the music in the air playing from the boombox, the laughter and dancing in nature, and the vibrant colors of the surroundings all painted a vivid picture of joy, calm, and contentment in me.
I remember the leaves crinkling in the wind as if applauding our presence in their sanctuary. The river embraced our company, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its revitalizing embrace. I can still feel the cold refreshing water on my feet. A fond and amusing memory I have of our picnics is when a spring current washed away the watermelon my dad had left in the water.
Those cherished recollections continue to echo in my mind, reminding me of the beauty and serenity of the simplest moments. Today, dancing leaves, flowing rivers, and waves of laughter and music tell me to seek joy, embrace nature, and find happiness in the symphony of life surrounding us.
While staying still and finding contentment in our daily routines are essential, it is equally important to recognize when it's time to break free from conventions and explore new possibilities. Embracing the discomfort that comes with growth for stepping out of the comfort zone can often be transformative and life-changing.
We could expand our horizons and perspective to life through these challenges and unfamiliar situations— whether good or sometimes hurtful. Welcome changes, take calculated risks if necessary, and allow the curiosity and passion for learning to lead us to a future filled with excitement and fulfillment.
Taking steps toward a much-anticipated transformation forces us to improvise at times, for it will only make us invincible.
Our memories are etched deep within our hearts and souls, shaping and changing us into the individuals we are today, far beyond the possessions we acquire or the souvenirs we collect. The river flows and leaves behind a trail of memories on the rocks it washes on its way. As time passes, the stones touch and soften each other's sharp edges, resulting in a smooth, shiny finish that gleams in the sunlight. The smoother the rocks, the easier they role with the river's flow.
"Je Vie Ma Vie" -A common yet profound expression in French.
Each day offers a fresh start, a new opportunity, and the freedom to live life on our own terms. For me, traveling is a great trigger for personal growth, self-discovery, and creating lifelong memories. It broadens my horizons, deepens my understanding and compassion toward others, and enriches my life.