Wonderland

The latest issue of Jakarta Java Kini (no, this is not a shameless plug) features an article titled "You know you're a true Jakartan when...". The last point in the article is:

A true Jakartan is darn proud to be a Jakartan
Jakarta is not an easy place to live in, what with the traffic, the heat, the escalating crime, the regular demonstrations and, of course, the annual deluge and the five-yearly mega-floods. And if all that doesn't sound challenging enough, making a living in Jakarta is not always an easy proposition. any real Jakartan worth his salt though is nevertheless proud to be a part of this complex capital. Perhaps the source of this pride comes from being able to take on everything that the city is able to throw at you every day and still come out on top. More likely though, this pride in the nation's capital comes from being a part of a city that is both fast-paced and hectic, and yet which is never lacing in subtleties. Jakarta is a city that traverses the cutting edge but which also has a human face. It is a truly challenging place and yet brims with boundless possibilities. Good luck out there folks!

And it couldn't be more true. I am proud to be a Jakartan. The capital isn't for the weak. It's evil and ruthless, but it has that certain urban magic that you don't get anywhere else. There's something oddly comforting about the uninvited rain that ruins your after-office appointment. And as you scream profanity to the motorbike rider that makes a sharp cut just an inch from your car, you feel at home.

However, later on, few months from now, can I still call myself a Jakartan? Bali has sort of grown on me and I actually like it. Will I come across the point where Jakarta ends and Bali begins? Well, whatever happens then, it's nice to know that I still have a pinch of Jakartan's perseverance... ...or cockiness, whatever, in my pocket.



Anyway, hometown, see you in a bit ;)
-R.