Louise had returned home and it was my final day with Ella. I woke feeling rather flat and Ella could sense I wasn't happy. Periodically I find myself emotionally and physically drained. My mind was tired and I needed to clear the cache.
Ella suggested we see the city in silence which is exactly what I needed. Often meeting new people everyday you have the same conversations and you're consumed by small talk. I've mentioned previously other factors that contribute to burning out but one remedy that I find works for me is silence and consistency. If you can stay in one place for a week, walk each day and have a few days of silence it can be enough to reset your mind.
I sat outside of the cathedral whilst Ella ducked in and out of the small independent shops nearby. We walked up the hill and watched over the city from above. We were there together but at the same time very much apart. I find there's a level of comfort having the feeling of solitude but the reassurance of a friend’s smile nearby.
Outside of Notre Dam we split up and agreed to meet later. I sat on the Basilica’s steps listening to a festive band play and was amused by the throwback of seeing the Camino scallop shells in the floor; now I notice these everywhere and feel part of the club.
Not a bad day, just a flat day.