A golden sunrise kissed the calm blue waters of the Ionian Sea as we came home this morning to Ithaca. We sailed into the deep-water bay of Vathi and tendered to shore. Ithaca is the home of Odysseus and is referenced in poetry as a universal symbol of home yearning and arrival at your destination.
“When you set out for Ithaka
ask that your way be long, full of adventure…”
Our adventures began as we improvised a caravan of local taxis to take us up the scenic winding road to a monastery and a Greek Orthodox church. Through olive groves and vineyards we climbed to the top of the hill. Fig trees lined the road with ripe fruits. The church was dimly lit with candle offerings and smelled pleasantly of the melting beeswax. Brightly painted frescos adorned the ceiling overhead.
We continued to the village of Stavros to sample the delights of a relaxed morning, Greek style. From street side cafes we sipped iced coffees, munched on baklava, or adventured into other more mysterious and delicious local offerings. The buzzing of cicadas accompanied our wanderings of the village as we learned more of the history of Odysseus’ homeland.
Winding our way back downhill to Vathi, we continued in poetry:
“Ask that your way be long.
At many a summer dawn to enter
With what gratitude, what joy
Ports seen for the first time…”
We left Ithaka behind and set our gleaming sails to slowly navigate the channel between Ithaca and Kefaloniá. There was no need to hurry, we are sailing and exploring, there’s no need to rush through anything.
“Have Ithaka always in your mind.
Your arrival there is what you are destined for.
But don’t in the least hurry the journey.
Better it last for years…”
Poem quotes from Constantine P. Cavafy
