A special encounter

I would like to tell you here about a special encounter that I was allowed to make the last few weeks. Again and again I am asked what I liked best when traveling or in certain countries. Or what it is that draws me into the world. Of course, the beautiful landscapes and places immediately come to my mind. The different cultures, smells and tastes that immerse me in another world. It's the whole picture of it all. But if I had to settle on the one thing that is most 'beautiful', it would be the people and their stories that I encounter on my travels.

We can't plan, book or buy these encounters. They just happen. Just like it happened on this particular morning.

But to make the story more understandable I have to start earlier. It started on a chilly afternoon in November. Together with a stranger, who in the course of time became a good friend, I sat for hours in front of the roaring fire in the horse stable, wrapped in woolen blankets. Our tea cups were slowly but steadily refilled again and again and time seemed to stand still. In our minds, however, we were traveling. In all the countries and smallest islands I had never heard of before.

And suddenly there was this idea to sail. The idea of crossing from Australia to Indonesia by sailboat pup up as a crazy idea and the spark grew. The idea did not let me go. Again and again we talked about our plan. More as a joke. Because it was even further in the future. And who knows what would happen in the meantime.

Now, months later I'm in Perth and I met this friend again. And she reminded me that I should work on organizing a boat. All I could say was, 'I am working on it.' Less than a week later I found myself on a small, seaworthy boat and I could hardly believe it myself.

Out of nowhere Dario from Italy came into the café, which was my home at the time. After less than 10 minutes he asked me if I would like to sail with him. And I said yes without hesitation. Which surprised him as much as me. We looked at each other and knew it was serious. Yes, I wanted to sail.

The thought of it made my plans, my thoughts and my ideas about the next time very much in motion. He would be sailing off soon enough, leaving Perth behind and heading for new shores. Should I go with him? Should I still stay?

A stranger sailor and adventurer became a good friend in no time. We spent good times on his boat, listening to each other's stories and thoughts, and had a common mission to complete. This friendship is special. And not infrequently we have found that we are very similar.

And so I decided with a heavy heart to let him go alone with his boat cat into the vastness of the ocean. Knowing that I will see him again. When and where is still uncertain.

I am sure you will read another story with my friend Dario. I will sail with him. Just not yet.