Singapore Airport, En Route to Bali

Hi Everyone,

The Singapore airport has more shopping than I think I've seen in a very long time.  You could get just about anything you need here, it's truly amazing.  I have heard that Singapore generally is very expensive, but prices in the airport seem to be fairly comparable to US pricing.  I suppose that is expensive for SE Asia though. 

So I wanted to share quick thoughts on traveling alone as I have a long layover here before I meet up with a few friends in Bali, and I have been reading the book 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed.  First of all, such a great book about her journey hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, and the struggle, beauty and transformation along her path. 

From time to time I contemplate being sad that I have lived alone for so long, and I do long for companionship.  Don't get me wrong, I'm quite happy with my life, and I have great companionship with many close friends - but I do wish I had a man in my life to be a companion and partner in crime (so to speak).  It doesn't usually come as an urgent "must solve this problem now" need, but more a nagging every once in a while that wouldn't that be nice.  It's actually hard for me to admit since I then feel the immediate rebellion in my mind of not wanting to sound like the "typical woman" or needy in any way - but the feeling is there, so may as well own up to it :)  Anyhow, I was reading in 'Wild' about her journey and spending so much time alone, with only herself in the wilderness and coming to the revelation that being alone is really not so bad. 

So it makes me contemplate, sitting here by myself in the Singapore airport where I know nobody and everyone is really here just transitory, what is so wrong with being alone?  I actually don't mind it.  I feel free to be myself, not care about judgement or expectations and to eat, drink and enjoy myself whenever I feel like it.  I am really truly free when I am by myself.  At the same time, I think it is human nature to want to feel connected to others - but when you have too much connection, it feels like you're trapped - I suppose the grass is always greener. 

Recognizing the need for balance and the fact that like so many things in life, the balance of being free/alone and having someone/companionship will fluctuate one direction or the other throught life, and that is ok, is freeing in and of itself.  Isn't life a fun rollercoaster?

Onto Bali ~ More Later ~

Amy