Traveling solo, I encountered my truest self.

I met a Didi driver in Xishuangbanna. He said, "Girl, you're traveling alone?! You must be a loner." His tone was rather judgmental. I replied, "Well, I have the time and money, so I can go wherever I want. (None of your business)" Solo travel is an experience free from scrutiny. I can wear elaborate makeup or go comfortably casual. I can bravely paddleboard or timidly watch from the shore. I can persevere to the mountaintop to see the stars or give up halfway and say "next time." No one's opinions or perspectives can sway my decisions. My own desires and feelings always take precedence. No matter how small the emotion, it is gently and properly acknowledged. In unfamiliar surroundings, it's easier to drop the mask. Perhaps because we'll eventually be lost in the sea of people, there's no need to pretend. No need to be clever, no need to be perfect. Away from the fixed tracks, order, and rules, I can confront my own kindness, naivety, gentleness, pride, selfishness, childishness, weakness, and humility. Imperfect, but good. And I forgive and accept this good self. Some say that when you travel, you can be anyone. I believe that while the narratives may differ, the core is the same. True self meets true self, sincerity meets sincerity. Resonating souls will meet in the gaps of the vast sea of people. In such intersections, farewells, and even longings, we find self-healing and healing for others. Shi Tiesheng's description is incredibly delicate: "Everything on that journey, some brushed past me and went their separate ways, while others permanently settled into my soul, carving me, shaping me, tempering me, merging with me and becoming me." Go out, see the world, see all beings, see yourself.