I find myself composing these words from a secret beach on a remote island in southern Japan. To the select few who venture here, it's known as Last Paradise Beach, and it's where I've decided to drop anchor for a spell. Amongst the few who regularly grace this serene sanctuary, I've found a community of kindred spirits.
Nature's Idyllic Haven
As I soak in the surroundings, it's clear why this place is christened Last Paradise Beach. Pristine waters.a canvas of crystalline blues that beckons. Beneath the surface, coral reefs teem with life, an underwater universe bustling with colorful fish and graceful turtles. On the shore, golden sands invite barefoot wanderings, and as I look around, I can't help but feel like a guest in Earth's own garden.
One of the regulars here has built a simple Teepee nestled within the nearby forest. It's a place of camaraderie, a shelter from the elements, where they prepare the day's catch—a feast of fish and wild boar—over an open fire. Gathered around the flickering flames last night, our conversations kindled more than just warmth; they sparked a question that lingers in my thoughts: Is paradise to be found by the eyes or by the heart?
Paradise, a Personal Quest
They've shared with me the origin of the name, "Last Paradise," and it resonates deeply. It's a title borrowed from a film—
The Last Paradise (Italian: L'ultimo paradiso) is a 2021 film directed by Rocco Ricciardulli, written by Rocco Ricciardulli and Riccardo Scamarcio
a tale of rebellion, love, and the relentless pursuit of something more. In many ways, it mirrors the journey each of us undertakes in search of paradise.
My Own Journey Aboard the Boat
My voyage to this secluded haven, aboard my trusty boat Wahine, has been a voyage of self-discovery. The rhythmic sway of the sea, the salt-laden breeze, and the endless horizons have offered a canvas for introspection. It's a journey where the heart takes the helm, steering us toward the destinations that resonate with our soul.
Reflections on Paradise
Paradise, I've come to realize, isn't a fixed point on a map; it's a state of being. It's the feeling of warm sand beneath your toes, the taste of salt on your lips, the sound of laughter by the fire. It's the connections you forge with kindred spirits who share this quest, the moments that etch themselves into your memory like seashells in the sand.
Seeking Paradise
For never-too-laters and all those seeking their own paradises, I offer this advice: Look both with your eyes and your heart. Let your eyes guide you to the breathtaking landscapes, the hidden gems, and the vistas that steal your breath away. But don't forget to look inward, too. Seek the places that resonate with your heart, where you find connection, peace, and a sense of belonging.
Closing Thoughts
As I continue my journey on this boat, the question remains: Is paradise to be found by the eyes or by the heart? The answer, I believe, is a harmonious dance between the two. Let your heart lead the way, and your eyes will reveal the beauty that surrounds you. In the end, paradise is not a destination; it's a voyage, a journey within and beyond, where the heart and the horizon converge.