365 Days Later

Today marks a whole year of my new life, stepping into the unknown and surrendering to everything that has crossed my path.

I remember the weeks leading up to my departure from Melbourne back in 2023 were a blur. As soon as I made the decision to start looking for jobs in the NT, it felt like the universe took over and everything was frictionless. It was like I was being sucked into a current pulling me to the deep end, but instead of feeling like I was going to drown, I suddenly had a life-jacket on. I knew I was entering a big chapter of challenge and growth, and I was going to feel out of my depth, but it was okay. I didn’t want to avoid going through the experience knowing it was going to feel hard, because part of me trusted I would be supported and the opportunity for development would be unparalleled.

Sandy Point

To try and cumulate a whole year of living in this uniquely beautiful place to one post is impossible, especially if you know me and know how much I like to talk/write/express. Instead, I want to share just one of the biggest lessons I feel this experience has taught me.

The word is simplicity; living free from the constant noise of Western society has been truely liberating. I love the slow, spontaneous rhythm of community life and am deeply inspired by the Yolŋu people’s natural connection to their land, which radiates from their very core.

To live in community means to be a part of a shared energy. It’s about exchanging resources and services, knowing the names of the people you pass by on the street, and embracing a life free from rigid schedules, which is a freedom I have never known before.

First time on 'learning on country' eating fresh Nyoka’ (crab) cooked on the fire.

The person I am 365 days later is a person who feels a deep sense of connection to the world around me. In my relationships to people, how they communicate and share their world with me. Tapping into the powerful energy the land spreads through her cycles and seasons. And in the moments of solitude when I have the time and space to go within.

.

I cannot believe how fast time has been moving. Reflection is a beautiful practice, it acts to slow the world around you so you can appreciate the small moments that come in-between the big ones. And it is with this intention, this blog will allow me to engage in this practice more. I hope it can inspire you to do the same.

E.