Fifth Journey Day 28: Still Point in Circling Air

Date: June 5, 2025
Location: Sørvágur, Faroe Islands

The walk to Lake Sørvágsvatn took longer than I expected, but it might have felt longer because of the wind. The gravel trail moved forward slowly, without rushing, going along sheep fields and low stone walls. Everything was covered in moisture — the mosses, the rock with its stains of lichen, and even the wood of the gates I passed through. Each surface felt like it had absorbed decades of rain.

When I reached the edge of the lake, which seemed to be hanging above the ocean, I had to crouch against the strong winds. The illusion isn't perfect, but it doesn't need to be. The sea looked far away and unreachable. The sound of the wind and the water below made it hard to think. There's no need to overthink it or change it up — just be yourself.

There was one gull flying in circles in the air above the cliff. It was perfectly still in the middle of the movement. I didn't draw today. I kept the paper in my bag. Watching was enough. I saw the sky change color behind the bird. I saw the white water far below. I saw the trail disappear behind me without making a sound.

I think the feeling was one of balance — the kind that doesn't demand happiness, but that stabilizes something inside. Maybe tomorrow I'll paint from memory, or from the way my coat still smells faintly of the sea and wet grass.

For now, I'm tired in a good way. I still feel the salt on my skin. The wind has finally stopped rattling the window.