#throwback – May 31, 2024

I wake up very early because I need to pee. I’m annoyed, but as soon as I unzip my tent, the frustration vanishes — what a beautiful sunrise. I doze off again, then treat myself to fried eggs with bacon. I was really craving it, and it tastes even better because of that.

I don’t read or watch the news, but still, through Instagram stories from people I follow, I keep seeing the word “Rafah.” I only know Rafa as a Spanish boy’s name and have no idea what it’s about — until I read what’s going on. My stomach turns. The world can be so utterly disgusting. Suddenly I wonder: is it okay to do what I’m doing, ignoring the news and focusing only on myself? The suffering hits me deeply. Am I being selfish? Am I, in some way, contributing to all this horror? Should I be out protesting instead? It lingers in my mind for quite a while. The thought keeps gnawing at me in the background.

After a beautiful walk across a boardwalk path, I eat without cooking — in a cemetery, of all places. Super convenient this time: some delicious bites I bought yesterday at a little Lebanese shop. While I’m there, I text and video chat with my daughter for a good while. I’m so proud of her. It’s not for me to share her plans, but one thing’s clear: she’s going to help make the world a better place. Her plans are concrete and well thought-out. It’s amazing that she’s committing herself to that, driven by her own inner motivation.

After a quick stop at a supermarket in Borensberg, I continue walking along the canal. The air is heavy — I wouldn’t be surprised if a thunderstorm rolled in. Before half past eight, I pitch my tent with a view of the canal. Nice and early, and I still have plenty of time to enjoy the sunset and the surprisingly lovely weather.