Last day of the mid-term exams at my university. This semester has been harsh since the beginning, dictating my life with all these group projects, papers, and endless presentations. I have been dreaming about this moment, waiting for the time I finally take a deep breath and relax, take a step out of all that rustle. And now, when it is finally over, for some unknown reason, my mind remains alert. All those concerns and fear about the future trapped me in a vicious circle of overthinking. Still, hopefully, this time, I had someone by my side to drag me out of it and help me to find inner peace.
Evening ride with no destination named. I am looking out the side window, observing how the sun goes down the horizon and the twilight slowly takes over its place, bringing that evening spring breeziness into the air. Breeziness! I suddenly realize that the air, indeed, smells like the ocean.
— We must be near the seashore!
I noticed a glimpse of a smile on his face.
— Welcome to Chebu-do.
Living in Ukraine, I have never seen the sea tide phenomenon, despite traveling a lot and spending half my life on the Black Sea. So at first, I didn't even realize what was going on. A long line of cars patiently waited in front of what was apparently the bridge to the island. But the thing is, it was fully covered by the sea. I couldn't believe my own eyes.
— Are you sure we came to the right place? There is literally no road at all. What are we waiting for?
— Patience Katya. Just 10 minutes left.
And as those 10 minutes went by, the real miracle was happening before my eyes. The low tide. Slowly but steadily, the water started to drag away, revealing the hidden bridge to this magical place. Fascinated, I couldn't say a word, only observing nature's power and true beauty. We slowly got to move on carefully, as the road was still slippery and covered with seawater.
— How could I live in Korea for so long and never heard about this place even once?
— Cause this is a true gem. And you will see why pretty soon.
Deep inhale. Exhale. The smell of the ocean has always made me feel calm and relaxed, but this time something was different. With every step toward the water, I gradually started feeling that inner peace deep inside me. I felt my mental core healing with every breath, step, and look at nature surrounding me.
The deep blue vast ocean was enchanting with its magnificent beauty and power. Calm wave noises with the soft spring breeze made the mood more authentic and indigenous. For a moment, I found myself being a part of nature and this beauty. And the nature became a part of me too. Little did I know that the West Sea had yet to reveal another secret. The low tide has opened the routes to the local rocks and cliffs.
Delicious meal with freshly caught grilled seafood, bright fireworks, and fun games. With every hour spent on an island, all my problems and concerns faded. I had no idea what kind of magic it was, but I knew I would return to this place repeatedly. Have you ever fallen in love with something at first sight? That was the moment for me.
It is getting late. The air is getting chilly and fresh as we are on our way back home. I am hugging a little teddy bear, the prize we won at some arcade. Naming it Bubu-ssi as a small reminder of this spontaneous but unforgettable trip. We are happy, laughing, and planning to return during the summer to explore the new, playful side of the island. Korea will never stop alluring me with its natural beauty. How many more hidden gems like this will I explore? But I am really looking forward to it.
Sometimes when things seem to go hard, please remember that bad times are always followed by good ones. Just like this trip happened in my life and brought that peace and happiness to my own self. This place was meant to enter my journey on the right day and time.
This place is Chebu-do. My source of power. My healing island.
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