First Journey Day 33: Whispers of Water
Date: September 26, 2023
Location: Tirana, Albania
Today in Tirana, Albania, the city exhaled a mild, early-autumn warmth. I wandered to the Grand Park, where the artificial lake held the sky like glass and the hum of the capital softened into quiet green.
Morning Light Over the Lake
The day began with a gentle breeze, carrying whispers of stories from the heart of Tirana. The skies were painted with soft strokes of white clouds against a vast blue canvas. As I stepped out into the city, the mild weather embraced me with a comforting warmth. My feet led me to the Grand Park of Tirana, a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The calm waters of the artificial lake mirrored the sky, while the tall trees stood as silent witnesses to the passage of time.
Winding Paths Through the Park
As I strolled through the winding paths, each step seemed to unveil a new scene, a new perspective. The chirping birds orchestrated a melody that resonated with the rhythm of my thoughts. The gentle rustle of leaves whispered the tales of ancient times, and the fragrance of blooming flowers carried the essence of the fleeting moment.
A Bench with a View
I found a quaint bench overlooking the lake, where I sat and sketched the serene scenery before me. The play of light and shadow on the water's surface, the dance of the leaves in the breeze, and the distant laughter of children playing nearby, all found a way into my sketchbook.
Sketching as Conversation
Each stroke of my pencil felt like a dialogue with nature, a silent conversation between the seen and the unseen.
A City in Sync with the Present
As the day unfolded, I felt a deep connection with the simplicity and beauty of the present moment. The peaceful ambiance of the park provided a canvas for my thoughts, allowing my imagination to wander freely. Today was a reminder of the infinite inspiration that lies in the heart of nature, waiting to be discovered, felt, and expressed.
Travel Notes
- Weather: Mild, high around 24°C; partly cloudy skies; a gentle breeze that set soft ripples across the lake.
- Scents: Fresh water, damp earth, and the green bite of leaves warmed by sun.
- Sounds: Birdsong threading through the rustle of trees; distant children’s laughter along the path.
- Reflection: Stillness isn’t the absence of movement—it’s the space where lines, light, and breath find harmony.
Continue the Journey
You may also enjoy yesterday’s lake-bound prelude from Ohrid, North Macedonia (Day 32), or linger with another Albanian moment in Saranda (Day 34).
