(The pictures above are a few from 1000+ images I took of my travels to Fort William, Inverie, Mallaig, and Knoydart Peninsula in Scotland)

24 hours late. I know. And also right on time. 

I landed back in the 'real world' two days ago, after a week of wild camping, no internet, and moving from place to place carrying everything we needed - our tents, sleeping bags, food, medicine, gps system, emergency shelter etc. 

We were told to not immediately connect back with the news, family, and people because the transition from being with a few people in the most remote part of the UK to being back on a London Tube or busy restaurant requires being gentle and kind. 

We were also advised to take time in making any changes, not being reactive. 

So what did I discover about myself? 

I don't need much. Truth be told, my feet were wet during the day for most of the trip... and when I say wet, I don't mean 'London wet,' I mean soggy, storm, muddy, ditch wet! The simple luxury of dry feet felt priceless and luxurious when it was unavailable to me last week. 

We experienced every single weather going - snow, hail, rain, sunshine, wind, etc... and often in the space of a few hours. At one point it was so windy all the tent pegs had to be double/triple checked! And many of us fell into all manner of types of mud and earth! When we found a bothy/shelter it felt like luxury because all of a sudden we had somewhere secure, safe, and solid to spend some time in. 

Human beings are amazing. On the morning of 2nd June 2024 the 10 women and 2 Mountain Leaders who went on the trip did not know each other at all. A week later we are best friends! This connection and support formed primarily because we all shared the truth of our lived experience, the complexities of our lives, and we listened intently and witnessed each other. There were no solutions, fixing, or answers offered. There is an ease that is created through the witness that allowed and enabled most of us to become vulnerable with each other quite quickly.

I took the Caledonian Sleeper and loved it... sleeping on a train from Fort William to London and waking up so close to home was a delight. As I travelled through the station to get on the tube home I saw a message:

Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come, remember everything you have faced, the battles you have won, and the fears you have overcome. 

What comes up for you as you read this?

What are the battles you have won?

And the fears you have overcome?

How can you gather all of these pieces in a little more to help you understand yourself better/more?

I am sure that I will keep sharing bits and pieces from my trip, including images from the 1000+ photos that I took! 

I hope you had a great start to the week, and see you on Sunday

All my best,

Saiyyidah

The Space