Hey everyone, Ruth here. Today, I'm coming to you not with polished prose or carefully curated content, but with raw reflections, spoken into my phone as if it were an extension of my thoughts.

Currently, I'm sat on Padang Padang Beach, and I have to tell you, this is genuinely everything I've ever dreamed of. Having been in Bali for two and a half weeks now, after giving up everything familiar back home, I can say with all honesty: I'm happy. Sure, there's a tinge of being lost, as one would expect from moving halfway across the world. Finding solace on a beach has its way of putting life into perspective, though it's hardly a magical cure for life's troubles.

The distance has made me miss my family more than words can express—my mom, my brothers. Yet, it's this very distance that's provided me the space to reflect on what I truly want out of life. For so long, I've had a clear vision of what my life should look like, but being here, with no definite plans, no return ticket in hand, has thrown me into a realm of confusion and introspection.

Day by day, I'm learning to listen—to really listen—to what my body and soul crave, what sparks joy in me. Bali, with its mesmerising culture and vibrant hues, offers a backdrop like no other for such a journey of self-discovery. If you're ever feeling lost or unsure of your path, I couldn't recommend it more. Whether this chapter is a detour or my final destination, it's shaping up to be a beautiful one.

In this moment, surrounded by the serene beauty of Bali, from the yoga sessions on the beach to the locals enjoying their daily routines, I've found a piece of happiness. Tonight, I head back to where I've been staying in Canggu, but I've decided to book an Airbnb in Seminyak for a short solitude retreat—craving a bit of me-time after the communal hostel life.

I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to be here. And I just want to take a moment to acknowledge something I don't often say out loud: I'm proud of myself. There was a time when I doubted I'd ever make it this far, ensnared in relationships and life's motions without truly living. But here I am, a testament to the power of dreaming big, leaving the familiar behind, and making those dreams a tangible reality.

So, that's where I'm at—embracing each day as it comes, finding my footing in this beautiful, unfamiliar land, and learning to be proud of the journey, no matter where it leads.

Thanks for joining me on this adventure. More updates to come as I continue to navigate this beautiful chaos.

All my love,

Ruth