My first week has swiftly passed since my arrival in Taiwan, and it's been a thoughtful journey of discovery, both of this vibrant city and its people and of my own self. As I wandered through the bustling streets tonight, I experienced a moment of "sonder," that strange realization of the millions of lives intersecting with mine. It's a feeling I've had before, but the depth of understanding I'm experiencing now is certainly different.
This new perspective has made it remarkably easier for me to forge new friendships. Recently I've had the privilege of meeting some exceptionally talented and fascinating residents. I hope this trend continues as I navigate through my life here, not just as an artist but, more importantly, as a person. In my previous article, I confessed to the challenges of forming connections in Taiwan, but with a slightly altered mindset, I've discovered ways to bridge the gap as a foreigner.
I admit I often set lofty expectations for myself, a trait that frequently leads to disappointment but If I can slowly change these expectations, it might release a burden, allowing for more organic growth and improvement without the looming shadow of instant success.
In line with the customary tradition of exploring natural wonders when visiting a new country, I embarked on my adventure today at 象山 (Xiangshan), affectionately known as "Elephant Mountain" to foreigners like myself. Though the mountain itself stands at a modest 600 feet, the journey to the top is made up of steep, mossy steps that could prove treacherous. Regrettably, I chose the hottest day of my stay so far for this excursion, turning an already challenging trek into a grueling ordeal. Yet, I don't regret a single step.
Upon reaching the summit, sweat streamed down my face, and the scorching heat of the midday sun felt almost unbearable. Just as I considered a well-deserved rest, the trail opened up to a platform with a breathtaking view of Taipei. It was a moment of pure beauty, and I appreciated my decision to climb on this sweltering day, as the clear skies allowed me to admire the city as if from a gap above the clouds.
While soaking in the sights and sounds from this platform in the sky, I noticed that the city was far louder than I initially perceived. The sirens and whistles that had become background noise in London were now more prominent. On the streets below, it had felt relatively quiet, with only the hum of passing vehicles, but from up here, the soundscape changed. Perhaps I was just more aware of the city's noise because, for the past 40 minutes, all I'd heard were the chirps of giant crickets in the trees.
Speaking of the creatures, during my ascent, I nearly walked into the web of the largest spider I've ever seen, it was looming just inches above me in a fortress of webs spanning five or six meters across the forest's low canopy. That, coupled with butterflies the size of small birds, was enough to make me grateful to reach the summit and escape the thickest of trees.
After resting for a while and taking it all in it was time to descend, and to my surprise, the journey downhill proved more challenging than the ascent. After just a few steps, my knees began to wobble with every downward motion. With over 600 steps ahead, the trip down became a daunting task, with my knees feeling like they could give way at any moment. I have to say I was pretty concerned for my own safety but luckily it's much faster coming back down than going up.
As I descended Elephant Mountain, my head swirled with the experiences of the past week. Taiwan had opened its arms to me, offering lessons not just about its culture and people but also about the resilience and adaptability within myself. I've learned that sometimes, it's essential to adjust our expectations, allowing us to grow organically without the weight of perfectionism bearing down on us.
I am sure that the journey ahead in this fascinating land promises more adventures, friendships, and moments of 'sonder.' I'm excited to explore the natural wonders and cultural treasures that await me in Taiwan, all while continuing to discover beauty in the unexpected.
So, as I take my next steps, I carry with me not only the memories of a hot and challenging climb but also the knowledge that growth often arises from the most demanding ascents. I heard a quote in the ‘Stutz’ documentary recently that has stayed with me “The greater the adversity, the greater the opportunity” I am beginning to see it now and with that thought, I cannot wait to see whatever lies ahead in this chapter of my life in Taiwan.
Author
Ethan Turner