The Tachibana First Turns Yellow
December 2–6 , Lugano, Switzerland
Seasonal Memoir #42
Switzerland offers three versions of itself: German, French, and Italian. While I live and work in the German version of this, with its fertile farmland, snow capped Alps, and dreary winters (in the valleys, at least), it’s only a 90 minute train journey to reach Lugano and its Swiss-Italian sunshine and tempo giusto.
Leaving Zug early in the freezing fog and clouds, and upon exiting the 57km Gotthard Tunnel (the longest rail tunnel in the world), I was met with blue skies. I had high hopes for some vitamin D therapy, and the 55F weather that was forecasted. Lugano did not disappoint.
I don’t plug in when I walk, as I try to get the full experience of forest-bathing. It never gets boring, oddly, and leaving the airpods in its case allows you to notice things you might not normally see, like mushrooms finding a way to thrive in the shadows, or a Catholic shrine along a sheltered path.
I made my way up a nearby mountain, avoiding some icy spots, taking my time to soak in the sights. At the top, there were a few other hikers just sitting along a wall, taking in the sun. Sublime. While it’s always fun to walk with other people, sometimes it’s nice to just have these moments by yourself, to selfishly take in, and do some thinking.
I continue to question my decision to spend the year mostly in Switzerland (and the rest working remotely from home), and thus not being there every day for my family. The guilt at times can be intense. There are certainly benefits of being here (professional engagement after a difficult ending in Dubai, not to mention the financial benefits of working), which help take the sting out of being so far away. Ugh.
Before hopping back on the train for a contemplative return to the gray, I enjoyed a pizza and glass of red wine, taking in a nice view of Lugano’s port. A day well spent!
