Leaving, but I'll be back

I'm leaving to go home tomorrow, and believe you me I am looking forward to getting south.

But part of me always stays here. This island, this land - it polarises you. You either love it or hate it - you can't be neutral about it.

And I love it - all its different moods, the way the light constantly changes, the shape and form of the sea, the way the land appears like some neolithic primitive animal lurking in the water as we return from our offshore flights.

It's utterly indifferent to the human presence that clings to its shores.

And I think because of that indifference, it makes you aware of your smallness in the great scheme of things. These islands were here long before I arrived, and will be here long after I disappear. It kind of puts things in perspective - but it makes you value life too, for we have it for such a short time.

We are like shadows and dust - here for just a brief moment - but what a moment!

What will we fill that moment with?