A solo vacation in Bali, eh? I know what you are thinking. Nah, I’m not trying to relive Elizabeth Gilbert’s EPL journey and have no interest in visiting Ketut in Ubud. I sort of already did that "soul vacation” in Bali 10 years prior to Liz, before soy lattes and dot com explosion. I didn’t find love with a Brazilian, but does a 3 day romance with Aussie I met on Kuta beach count? Okay, maybe not. Instead, I fell in love with a British man that I met in Hong Kong who later became my (ex) husband. I missed the boat when I forgot to write a book or a song about it.
I’m sitting on my patio at the same homestay in Candidasa. It’s hardly recognizable now. New bungalows now replace the landscaping, and the name of the homestay has changed along with the owners. Still, the spiritual and cultural essence of Bali radiates profoundly throughout the land.
I met an Indonesian woman during my first visit to Candidasa in January 1996. I was sitting on a black sand beach and she showed me her traditional style paintings. If you haven't traveled to third world countries, you can easily put up your walls with the touts. Ni Wayan was different, she stood out. The soulful depth in her eyes captured my attention, her features were strikingly beautiful and what she said to me sent a tingle up my spine. She told me how I was lucky to live in America because there is more opportunity and how she dreamed of a better life. It broke my heart. I told her I was an artist as well and that it was my second year out of university. Her eyes brightened with excitement and she gave me the biggest smile. She said “You artist, too. That is good. You do well, k? You work hard, k? Someday you become famous, make lot of money selling you art and come back to Bali.” I laughed. Her expression changed. She nodded her head with seriousness and said “Yes, Jan-ey. Not possible for me. But, FOR YOU possible!”
May Follow your Dreams (inspired and dedicated to Ni Wayan) be of inspiration to you. You may not be an artist, but you have a passion. If you have felt a strong pull in your heart, listen to what it is telling you to do.
You may encounter some mind stumbling blocks. First of all, don’t allow the dream stompers to sway you off track. You know who they are. There could be a belief within you that are attracting these people into your life. Or they are generally pessimistic people, not wanting to see others succeed. If you are confident in your abilities, there is an abundance of positive, open hearted people that will show up to support and encourage you.
Secondly, if you are concerned about competitors, switch your focus to what you are doing. To compete and compare are negative words that cloud your thinking. At a higher perspective, there is no competition because we are not separate. Energetically we are on the same wavelengths, kindred spirits on similar journeys – we are all connected and actually help each other succeed. That is how the universe works. There is plenty for everyone. You have your own uniqueness and way of doing what you do that makes you different. Bring your soul and experiences into what you do well and people will resonate with your unique gift. The universe will make space for you to blossom if you believe in what you offer. You have always known your truth, so don't question it. Trust it!
If you feel like your dream is daunting or unattainable, dreams require baby steps and patience. And, here’s a big sigh of relief, dreams don’t need to be so grand! In America, I believe “we think we need to” start our own businesses and earn a certain income to be respected, successful and satisfied. We are programmed to measure success by what we accomplish. This is nonsense. Maybe your dream is something you only do part-time or only on the weekends. That is enough! Do what works for you and you can make happen comfortably. If you are taking action doing what makes your heart sing and are sharing it with the world, you are living your dream. It’s as simple as that!
I’ve been observing the Balinese living in the poorest conditions, yet I see them as successful beings filled with joy. They get it! I am inspired by their lifestyle values. If you are doing what you love in your career, but are not fulfilled in the other areas of your life: relationships, finances, health, spirituality, and self care what’s the point? How is this living your dream? You are only successful if you are doing what you love and the other important parts of your life are also in balance.
Whatever your dream is, big or small, express it because the world craves your creative expression. By doing what you love, you will inspire others to do the same and this is what creates positive shifts in the world. Envision, Explore and Express your inner Goddess of Transformation!
(Antique Indonesian postcards purchased in 2001)
ENVISION what brings you inspiration and harmony.
EXPLORE with courageous action.
EXPRESS your unique essence and gifts with the world.
