Solo Backpacking in Sri Lanka: Finding Myself Amidst Cultural Disconnect | Sobriety Day 102

In today's video, I share the deeply personal and transformative experience of my first solo backpacking trip around Sri Lanka. As an adoptee returning to my birthplace, I had high hopes and expectations of feeling a deep sense of homecoming and connection with my roots and "my people." I envisioned a journey where I would feel an intrinsic bond with the culture, the land, and the people.

However, the reality of my experience was quite the opposite. From the moment I arrived, nothing felt familiar. The sights, sounds, and social dynamics were all foreign to me, and I found myself feeling more Swedish than I ever had before. This unexpected disconnection was jarring. Despite making genuine efforts to interact with many Sri Lankans, I struggled to read the social cues and cultural nuances. This made it difficult for me to feel safe and comfortable, leading me to gravitate towards other Europeans who felt more familiar and easier to connect with.

Navigating this journey was incredibly challenging, as I had to rely heavily on my intuition to understand what was safe and what wasn't. There were moments of doubt, confusion, and a profound sense of loneliness. Yet, this solitude also provided a unique opportunity for self-discovery and growth. With no one too lean on but myself, I began to understand myself on a much deeper level. I learned to trust my instincts and gained a greater sense of resilience and self-reliance.

Please note, this video is a storytelling session where I reflect on my experiences and personal growth. There won't be visual footage from my travels around Sri Lanka, but rather an intimate discussion about the challenges and revelations I faced.

Join me in this video as I reflect on this challenging yet enlightening experience. I delve into the complexities of identity, the unexpected hurdles of reconnecting with one's roots, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. This journey was not just about exploring a new country, but about exploring and understanding myself in ways I hadn't anticipated.