I stood at the kitchen counter this morning drinking coffee and thinking, "Am I happy here? Is this what it feels like to be happy? To be moving forward?" I was struck by the notion that there was no conflict in me. I'd forgotten what it felt like to truly be still, to have contentment. To find it in such a place - where I know very few people and am unfamiliar with the area and culture and I'm not sure where this year is leading - is a wonder. One of those moments that makes you marvel. There's something to be said for packing your life in two suitcases and a backpack and moving to the other side of the world. When I figure out what it is, I'll let you know.
Things I've learned in the past week:
- There's always an opportunity for pictures, so don't be afraid to be the person lugging around a camera.
- Small touches make a room feel home-y, and having a room that feels home-y keeps the homesickness at bay.
- The toilets don't really flush the other way (Sorry, Dr. Burt...)
- Driving on the other side of the road is terrifying.
- Kids are some of the most accepting people on the planet, so surrounding yourself with them is wise.
- Community matters; when you build one, build one with purpose, one that will carry you and let you reciprocate.
- Most importantly, the accents here? They really are that cool.
You are becoming wiser and wiser....
ReplyDeleteCheck more toilets!
ReplyDeleteI think I would pee my pants every time a car passed in the opposite direction. I don't think I could ever become accustomed to driving on the other side of the road.
ReplyDelete4. I remember the first time I drove on the "other" side of the road, on vacation in England - stick shift, no less ! It was FUN, and a real boost to my self-esteem, to realize that I was co-ordinated enough to do it on the first try !
ReplyDelete5. Yes, one should always keep lots of those baby goats nearby (LOL).
6. Community not only matters, it's crucial to our well-being; I've been in community, and without one, and "in" has made all the difference.
Your Mom is right on (as usual) - you are growing in wisdom; what a pleasure to see it happening !
Love - Grandpa