It’s Sunday morning as I type.
Outside I can hear the building staff sweeping up from the epic equatorial storm that hammered Kampala last night. There’s been one every night since Tuesday and I am told they will continue through April, which suits me fine. I love crazy thunder, lightening and rain storms. Last night was particularly violent though. Doors and windows were slamming and items were blown around on the rooftop, outside and on my wee balcony.
I think maybe the sheer magnitude of the storm has me feeling small, insignificant and vulnerable. Combine that with waking up, alone, in the middle of the night to a world gone mad. And then being a little over-tired due to disturbed sleep. Okay, hormones may be playing a small role as well (tmi again, right?)
So, I’m going to put it all out here. I’m a little weepy and indulging in a small helping of self-pity.
Yes, I’ve chosen to come halfway across the globe by myself and I do not regret it. Sometimes, though, I feel lonely and isolated. Especially during the first half of my day when my Canadian friends and family are sleeping. I try not to send them too many texts (thank you WhatsApp for connecting the world!) but I give in occasionally and send little random thoughts and questions just to feel close.
I have been slower making friends outside of work in Kampala. Partly because in Zimbabwe and Cambodia I actually lived with people. Here I have a great apartment but I’m by myself. But it’s also because I haven’t made much of an effort yet. That will change this week. I’m going to an Internations event this week. I’m also going to use the connections functionality to reach out to some other women expats to see if they want to meet up. I’ve dabbled with a couple of dating apps, but it’s not really my thing plus I’m more interested in finding friends than dates. (side note – ghosting people is just plain rude!)
What else can I write about feeling lonesome? I know it will pass. Probably within a few hours, when I head to the gym again with my boss, Phil. He has introduced me to some places here in Kampala. I also had a co-worker take me out for a day of swimming a few weeks back at the beautiful Lake Victoria Hotel. For 25,000 shillings (approximately $7USD) we spent the entire day lounging by the pool with hotel guests. *not sure how that fits in this post but inserting random thoughts where they don’t belong is a signature trait of mine*
It’s time for me to take the bull by the horns and integrate more in Kampala. That’s why I am here. To LIVE in Africa, not just watch it or be a tourist. And it’s not like I’m shy. I talk to anybody, anywhere, anytime. It’s more like I’m lazy or apathetic, both of which are easily addressed.
** at this point in writing, I was indeed invited to head to the gym, which I did for the second day in a row. I had great workout and my legs will make me pay tomorrow. Endorphins have taken over and I feel great.
Yesterday’s gym: Espace Gym & Spa, Silver Springs Hotel
Today’s gym: Paradise Fitness City
A Travelling Accountant 