Here in Ikaria it is “Spring Forward” and the time has changed one hour. Today is a big change for us as well, as we have to say goodbye to Thea, our new-found friends and Ikaria. We all are looking forward to seeing our family and friends at home and sharing our experiences. It’s bittersweet.
The day started out lazily; morning walks up the mountain, a last minute run down the road or walks to the beach; all to the sounds of the waves, the smell of fresh air, and the bells on the sheep. We packed, took pictures and had a quick brunch of yogurt, spinach and cheese pies before we got on our bus for the ride back to the airport.
Reflecting on our journey, we each have new ways we plan to incorporate what we experienced into our personal life. A passion to pass onto others the benefits of this Ikarian lifestyle is another piece of this journey. Food, herbs, community, and slowing down so as not to miss what is right in front of you.
We boarded the plane on the other side of the island…the largest piece of flat land there. Good bye Ikaria! We hope to see you again!
About an hour later we landed in Athens. Such a different pace in the city; almost to our disappointment, already missing the life in Ikaria. Groups went to eat and explore Athens. Some visited where the Apostle Paul spoke at Mars Hill and others explored Plaka. Narrow streets, lots of people and a fast pace greeted us.
Can we practice and use what we learned and do better at going with the flow, eat more fresh foods and introduce others to this lifestyle in our communities? I think we can.
– Jean Akers