Decisions
Sensory Overload
I have learned recently (and subsequently apologized to those around me, asking for patience): when given more than one option, I have difficulty making a decision.
I didn’t realize how bad this was until I recently entered a food court at the Cape Town international airport. Though I certainly haven’t starved whilst in Karatu (echoes of “Mama Afrika” ring in my ears), options sometimes were limited. Simply, most times when eating in town, the majority of items listed on the menu were not available. I grew not annoyed (admittedly it took a handful of repeat circumstances to break me) but rather understood limitations. I even appreciated them for when presented with the facts you are left with two easy options: you either take it, or leave it! So, when seeing a smoothie place, cafe with fresh baked bread, loads and loads of delicious salads and hearing espresso machines’ whistles, I was stopped dead in my tracks…
…
…
Thirty minutes, a cigarette break (for my travel companion Charlotte), and lots of mind juggling on my behalf later, we were seated, drinking and eating. Note: I would have included photos but I was too dumbfounded and overwhelmed to do anything but stare and deliberate over how to proceed.
Needless to say, my subsequent visits to some super markets left me immobile. Thankfully Charlotte was behind me, pushing me along. Without her, I’d likely still be standing in front of some Milo cereal boxes.
Adventures of a Delicate Flower 
Dear Elizabeth,
I totally get it! Everything you described, I have experienced too, at the Amersterdam Airport, every time I return. I usually try to divert my gaze from all of the boutiques and food court places and flee to the meditation room to sit quietly and calm my senses. Now we can understand the culture shock of our friends, like Bayo, and others who come to this country and are overwhelmed and shocked by our culture.
Usually, when I return after a visit to Tanzania, I boycott malls, even stores or shopping, while I adjust to this life and promise myself that I will live a simpler life. This has been a gift from Tanzania. Knowing that there is a different way to live. I have the sign “Less is More” on my window sill in my kitchen and have tried to live with less, eat less, spend less, breathe more, walk more, connect in a deeper way with family and friends, through real conversations, over meals I prepare, not in restaurants.
I heard from a friend of yours (I don’t remember who) that you were planning on walking the St. James Way in Spain. This is wonderful. I am pleased for you that you have that in store.
Thank you for keeping me posted on your Adventures.
Blessings,
Sue
11/03/2014 at 11:16
Just wondering if you got my note that i would 2 reservations to the upcoming gathering ?? bob FRENCH
11/03/2014 at 14:21
Hello Bob! Thank you for your note! I’ve put you down for two tickets for the event. Should you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to constancy me: e.kallop@gmail.com
Thanks
Elizabeth
13/03/2014 at 01:24
Good morning (at least for me)- You certainly brought a touch of humor to my day as we are expecting “the big storm front today”. We had a ‘spring lamb’ yesterday at 63 degrees and today the lion is roaring back. I so love hearing your updates – know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Barbara
12/03/2014 at 08:18