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Landshaping Me

Updated: Jun 22, 2023

In my days off and free time, I find myself drawn to visiting you. It was an unexpected turn of events, as I had been attempting to distance myself, but something truly remarkable happened.


You, in essence, embody the spirit of my hometown. You are the very “home” where I was born, grew up, and created memories. My mother describes you as a land embraced by rolling hills, akin to a cauldron, with you nestled in its heart. You possess a temperature that is neither scorching nor cold, and you play with the wind that graces your presence. You have been my training ground, teaching me valuable lessons about life and being there for me. Despite my attempts to move on, I realize it is impractical for me to sever ties with you completely.


As I wander through your familiar streets, I am overcome by a sense of belonging and nostalgia. Each corner holds a memory, every building carries a story. The sights and sounds of your bustling markets, the aroma of street food wafting through the air, and the laughter of children playing in the neighborhood parks all intertwine to create a tapestry of cherished moments. I am reminded of the friendships forged, the dreams shared, and the challenges overcome within your embrace. In a world that often feels fragmented and transient, you remain a constant, an anchor that grounds me in the ever-changing tides of life.


You are more than just a place; you are a sanctuary, a haven of familiarity and comfort. And as I continue to visit you in my days off and seek solace within your embrace, I am reminded of the profound impact you have had on shaping who I am today.


In the words of WS.Rendra’s poem, it feels as though you respond, saying, ‘Yes, this is who I am! No more doubts! This is the aroma of my armpits, the sound of my cough. You have touched me. Don’t stumble any longer

Novian Arif

Photo by Novian Arif


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