We drive across Bulgaria from the capital Sofia to Ruse on the Danube river. It’s the heat of the summer, so we stop by and gaze at some cool fountains.
The fountain in front of the National Theater is arguably the most famous in Bulgaria. Every visitor to the Bulgarian capital takes a photo in front of it, and so do the locals.
On the way to Ruse, we stop at the town of Ovcha Mogila. Here Rumi is to rendezvous with two schoolmates by the downtown fountain.
This old fountain looks plain and simple yet somehow dignified. Perhaps, fountains like it were in fashion back in the late 19th century. I kneel and take its picture with the War Memorial as a backdrop.
I take a picture of the fountain and turn to the three classmates. They notice the lens pointed at them and hurry to tidy themselves up, making sure they look super in the photo. A cup of coffee takes advantage of the commotion and jumps off the bench onto the tiles. Coffee drops splash around and reach some people. I feel guilty, but the ladies laugh heartily.
At last, we are in Ruse. The fountain in front of the Rousse Opera House emits peace and tranquility. Tunes from favorite composers sound in our souls.
We decide that we have to pause in front of at least one fountain daily, watch the water flow and contemplate – and do so for the rest of our lives.
