Third Journey Day 73: Dreams on the Move
Today felt like a delicate balance between quiet reflection and the steady pulse of life around me. I visited the Patuxai Monument, an imposing structure that rises above the city and reflects the resilience of the Lao people. Climbing the stairs to the top, I was greeted by a sweeping view of Vientiane. The view was peaceful, yet there was a subtle hum of life below - cars moving slowly, people walking in the park, and the river beyond flowing steadily.
The park surrounding the monument offered a respite from the sun. I sat on a bench, feeling the breeze on my skin and letting my mind wander. A man named Somchai approached me, curious about my sketchbook. We exchanged stories-he told me about his life as a tuk-tuk driver, the rhythms of the city, and his dream of visiting other Southeast Asian countries. His energy was contagious, a reminder of how dreams propel us forward.
In those quiet moments, I felt connected to the space around me, to the stories held in the stones of the monument, and to the people who walk through this city with their own hopes and dreams. It was a gentle yet profound day.
