#TheEvolvingWay #TheEvolvingYou
A month ago, just before my birthday which was edging closer to 50, I decided it was finally time to embark on a solo road adventure in India, something I had been longing to do but never attempted. The destination: Chennai, a city of friends. The plan was set, and my heart was a concoction of emotions – excitement, apprehension, and a tinge of nervousness. Little did I know that this journey would be a transformative experience, one that would leave an enduring mark on my soul.
Here are some of my reflections of that trip:
The road to Chennai began with a culinary delight at Murugan Idli, a place renowned for its delectable South Indian cuisine. Normally, I would have preferred the company of friends or family during such meals, but as I sat there alone, savouring the flavourful idlis and sipping on filter coffee, I felt an unexpected sense of empowerment. There was a unique sweetness to this independence, as if the freedom to indulge in my own company had infused an extra layer of flavour into the food.
Continuing the journey, I felt the nerves creeping in. Somehow, Bangalore to Krishnagiri still felt somewhat local. The idea of driving alone for next five and a half hours was intimidating, to say the least. However, as the miles rolled on, the nervousness melted away, giving rise to wonder and joy. The scenic landscapes and the allure of the open road mesmerized me. I realized that being alone didn’t mean being lonely; it meant being open to the world and its wonders, free from distractions.
Each passing kilometre brought a surge of confidence. The mere act of pushing myself out of my comfort zone instilled a newfound courage within me. If I could overcome my nerves and navigate the highways and byways on my own, then surely I could face and conquer other challenges life had in store for me. This realization filled me with a sense of empowerment that transcended the confines of this particular journey.
Throughout the trip, my phone buzzed incessantly with messages from friends and family. They were curious about my progress, sending words of encouragement, and, most importantly, praying for my safe drive. These gestures warmed my heart, knowing that even from afar, I was connected to a web of care and love. It reinforced the fact that even in solitude, I was not alone.
The drive into Chennai presented its own set of challenges, especially the midday Chennai traffic as I navigated from the Perambur area to Adyar, which seemed like an insurmountable obstacle. Despite dodging the need to drive in Bangalore for nearly 10 years, at that moment, with no choice left, my determination to conquer this challenge soared. I persevered, navigating the twists and turns, and eventually found myself weaving through the bustling streets of the city. My lesson; when there is no choice, we will find a way.
Arriving at my destination, I felt an exhilarating rush. The sheer satisfaction of completing the journey on my own was unparalleled. I had conquered my fears, embraced solitude, and achieved a sense of fulfilment that can only come from personal triumph. Standing in front of my friend’s apartment, I felt renewed, stronger and more self-assured.
Reflecting on the entire experience, I understood that the right balance of adrenaline from pushing myself out of my comfort zone and oxytocin from the gratitude and love for the journey had kept me grounded and calm throughout. The interplay of these emotions had created a unique harmony, leading me towards self-discovery and personal growth.
In conclusion, my first solo car trip from Bangalore to Chennai was not just a physical journey; it was a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
From relishing the taste of independence at Murugan Idli to conquering the nerve-wrecking traffic, each moment offered an opportunity for deep reflection. The support of loved ones and the adrenaline-oxytocin blend of emotions made this journey truly memorable.
As I turned the ignition to head back home, I carried with me a renewed sense of self-belief and a promise to seek more adventures beyond the horizon, knowing that the road to self-discovery is often the most rewarding one.
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