This is the story of how a standard plush toy became a symbol of our love. This is the story of Leo the Turtle. He came into our lives on the 3rd of March 2017. It was Becca's 25th birthday and we were chillin' in Patpong (Red Light District in Bangkok) in the Soi (street) with all the gay bars (it was the only Soi that we weren't getting hassled with 'Ping Pong' show requests). We sat at a bar overlooking the street and next to us was a Japanese gay couple. We stuck conversation with them when I helped them out ordering Mojitos with less sugar since I speak a bit of Thai. They told us about lives, where they live, what they do etc. and the conversation soon came to their struggles of being a gay couple in Japan. Even though, they live in the liberal island of Okinawa, they still had to state they were housemates (even though some close friends know they are more) and meet other gay couples in underground clubs.
As our evening went on, Becca noticed a street vendor going up and down the street selling some stuffed toys and pointed out the turtle as she loves turtles. The Japanese couple took notice of this and kindly went over and brought a plush turtle for her as a birthday gift. We asked their names and one of the guy was called Leo, we believe it was his nickname, so we named the turtle - Leo.
So why has this turtle become a symbol of our love?
Well, there are moments in life that are significant and that night was quite special. Firstly, it was Becca's milestone birthday and secondly, it was a sign from the universe that we ended up at that bar at that time after a jammed packed day to emotionally bond with the Japanese couple. They treated Becca with a gift, which they shouldn't have, but felt obliged to. The Japanese couple were so open to us about their societal and cultural struggles of living as a gay couple in Japan and being able to 'let loose' when they come to Thailand (they come four times a year!). Now, I will not compare our struggles with theirs because theirs is much greater. However, we have our personal struggles of being in a long distance relationship. Both hardships require effective communication and endless belief in love. This is why I am sending Leo to Portugal in Becca's Christmas package. If I cannot be there for her this Christmas, at least, he could. He is the one that brings us together and brings a smile to our faces. This is the story of Leo, I hope you enjoy the vlog!
The music used in this vlog:
Song: Nuvole Bianche
Artist: Ludovico Einaudi
I do not own the rights to the song used and it was used for 'Entertainment Purposes Only'.
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