Seeking solitude

Photo diary from three weeks away

There’s an irony to leaving Alaska and flying across the world to a densely-populated area in search of solitude. Yet I found it there, on the rain-soaked shores of Indonesia. I cultivated necessary space and let the silence in.

It’s up to us to recognize what we need. To reframe the seeking process as not self-indulgent but instead, as practice for communal care. Empathy grows from understanding our histories and the context in which we arise. When we gain perspective on ourselves, we can more easily apply that perspective to others.

Solo travel is ideal for practicing the private rituals that allow such self-discovery. From meals to bedtimes, a day with only our desire as guide.

It’s important to follow these urges when we can. Our lives are seasonal, and the yearning for solitude won’t last. Soon enough, a season of abundance will return. Breathe into the silence and learn what it brings when it’s here.

Below are photos from the three rolls of film I shot over three weeks of travel. Cliché or not, I sense they may convey more than my words.

All on Kodak Gold 200 film with a Minolta AF-2.

Finally, even as the sun returns with its subtle whispers to do more, there’s still time to rest. I hope you embrace whatever season you’re in.

Until next time,

Julia

P.S. I’d like to make a photo zine of this trip. A lot of the images, including more double-exposures, aren’t fit to share here but are nonetheless interesting. Would love to know what you think.