Kayla Abadie
Coming to Cambodia has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. When I first arrived, I felt overwhelmed with wonder and joy. As the days went on, I realized this trip was affecting me on a much deeper emotional, mental, and spiritual level than I expected. I was immediately struck by a quiet sense of truth the moment I stepped off the plane. Something about the environment here - the energy, the pace, the people - made something inside me shift before the tour had even begun.
Had lunch at a local family in Battambang
There were several moments that stayed with me: the stillness of the temples, the openness of the countryside, and the Dharma talks at the pagoda. In each of those spaces, I felt a kind of clarity that I couldn’t ignore. Some moments brought joy, while others brought realizations I didn’t know I needed. Before this trip, I always felt like I was searching for the “next step,” usually through external achievements; building my career, pushing myself harder, striving for more. Being here helped me understand that I haven’t been giving myself enough space to turn inward. I’ve learned that I need more honesty with myself, more gentleness, and especially more patience.
One of the most powerful parts of this experience was meeting the Cambodian people. Through conversations with locals and experiences like the Buddhist retreat, I learned so much about peace, grace, and presence. Their way of moving through life showed me that gentleness can hold incredible strength. There were moments when the spirit of Cambodia felt almost physical. There were times when I felt exposed, or something stopped me in my tracks and made me reflect deeply. These moments reminded me that I am capable of choosing a different path for myself, one that aligns more closely with who I want to become.
Participated meditation at a local pagoda
Because of this trip, I am leaving Cambodia with a renewed sense of direction and a deeper commitment to intention and inner work. Most of all, I hope to carry forward a greater sense of patience with myself, with my journey, and with the world around me. I am incredibly grateful for the courage this trip helped me find, for the guidance and presence of Mony, and for the care put into every detail of this experience. This journey has changed me in ways I am only beginning to understand.
While the tour was only 10 days, it felt like something much deeper. Cambodia will stay with me; in my thoughts, in my heart, and in the way I move forward from here.
With gratitude,
Kayla
