City Static

The first day in Hong Kong has left me feeling a little frayed around the edges. Being back in a large, crowded city that moves with an urgency I don’t understand is not something I love. Added to that, I am applying for a new visa — something I hate to admit is a new experience for me — and it has made me more nervous than I would like. Anyone who knows me knows that this kind of real-world administration is not my strong suit.

When I stopped in a park for a moment, I noticed how tired I felt — more tired than after any full day of training. It made me wonder if life in Wudang has been quietly supplying me with a constant flow of energy, and whether the pace of a concrete jungle now drains it away.

I don’t know the answer. It was just a question that passed through my mind in a brief pocket of calm.

Hong Kong seems like a good city — the kind of place that would feel exciting if you were drawn to speed and momentum. That isn’t me. Still, I have enjoyed walking and observing the city through my camera lens. That simple act removes distraction and helps me focus on what genuinely interests me. And the truth is, there is a lot here that is interesting.

For now, it’s time to get a little work done and do some quiet research on how I want to spend the coming week.

The evening passed pleasantly, doing almost nothing. It struck me as strange to be in a city full of temptation — full of things I once would have found hard to say no to — and feel no pull toward any of it. I’m not tempted by the temptations.

It’s a nice feeling, to be honest. A long time coming, and one I’m glad has arrived.

Tomorrow is visa day. I’m hoping it unfolds without stress or complication. For now, I’m carrying hope with me.

You have to live with it, don’t you?