fiji time

It is our last day in Fiji. I am currently watching the sunrise from the beach, which is only a few feet away from our bure. Fiji is the first stop in our unmapped adventure and it is a bit surreal. I feel like I will be returning from vacation and back to work shortly. Instead, we are off to New Zealand tonight for our 18-day camper van excursion. 

Fiji is a beautiful place. The people are incredible, always smiling. Bula is Fijian for hello and whenever you encounter a Fijian they give you a warm welcome and a big smile. Things move pretty slowly around here and it can be attributed to "Fiji time." Annie and I definitely feel it. It is probably a combination of humidity and an influence from the natives but we are moving very leisurely these days. My day consists of three meals, three naps, and a little poolside scrabble. 

I think Fiji was an important first stop for us to unplug after a grueling February of boxing up our lives. I initially had the urge to check email every half hour but Comcast solved that problem. Since I am no longer a paying customer, I lost my primary Comcast email address. It feels a little strange being so unplugged with my phone number shut off and losing my email but also a little empowering at the same time. 

One of the main things I will take away from Fiji is something we learned when we attended the Fijian history talk at our resort, Treasure Island. In Fiji, the natives have a practice of letting everything go from the day every sunset. If something happened or someone wronged them on any level, they forgive and forget by sunset. At sunrise, it's a fresh start each day. It think it is a great philosophy and something I will work to put into practice a little more in my own life. The people are always smiling and so friendly and I'm sure this can be partly attributed to their sunrise philosophy. 

On a final note, we have had a really positive response to the blog and we encourage and appreciate everyone's comments. It makes us feel connected to friends and family. I am sure there will be a little homesickness on the trip so keep the comments coming. 

All for now. I am headed back to our bure. The very short walk will probably take much longer than expected. "Fiji Time."

Comments

[Hilary & JO]

Sounds like you guys are having an amazing trip. We are with you in spirit and wish you the most fun ever as you continue your adventure. Keep those blog postings coming! Love, Hilary and JO

[Joyce Hsiao]

Ooooh, I love snorkeling!! the fish get really close to you though.
I miss you guys so much. The house seemed so empty when you left. On the otherhand... I love the car :D i bet my parents do too because my schedule is a huge hassle for them. Thanks so much again for letting me use it.
and... I can't wait to see pictures of your camper and videos of both of you driving stick and on the wrong side of the road >.<

[Joyce Hsiao]

btw... do you plan on growing out the facial hair? I think it makes you look like you're really on a backpacking trip, but my opinion is influenced by forrest gump.

[Judy Lin]

Show me more picture. have fun,

[Mary Lappan]

Second stop and I can't wait to hear about and see the adventures. The scenery must be amazing.
Me

[May]

I didn't check my email for a period of time. I was busy making Jon another hat. Hopefully it fit well and to be done before you come back this time. Working for cancer patients in hospital teach me one important thing in my life, that is enjoy the moment you are now, put the question of future aside and stay positively to get through the uncertainty of life.
Enjoy the trip, come home safely with nourished mind.

Love you two.

[The Beckers]

Looks and sounds like you're having fun! I'm enjoying reading your blogs. Keep safe. Hugs :)