“Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life - and travel - leaves marks on you. Most of the time, those marks - on your body or on your heart - are beautiful. Often, though, they hurt.”
Anthony Bourdain
This semester has been an accumulation of lessons. Many of which I don't think I've realized that I've even learned. I've discussed some (below) that I believe I've begun working on; though, as with all things, I have a long way to go.
1. I learned how to be happy.
I can honestly say that I've never been so happy in my life than I was this past semester. Even during frustrating times I tried to continuously reminded myself that it was all part of the adventure of being abroad.
2. I learned that I'm stronger than I thought.
I met new people and made incredible friends in a very short period of time which I used to say I was bad at. It was easier than I thought though. We were all looking to make friends because Thailand was new to all of us. I took a gigantic leap by deciding to relocate halfway around the world for a semester knowing no one. I was scared, but I loved it and proved to myself what I'm capable of doing.
3. I learned to appreciate nature and see beauty in the things around me.
I've never been a very outdoorsy person, but I've become someone that really enjoys nature. The world is beautiful and acknowledging that just makes me a happier and more appreciative person.
4. I learned how much I love to learn.
I am embarrassed to say that I was naive and ignorant about a lot of things prior to coming to Thailand. However, I have begun to research, discuss with those around me, and ponder what things mean in relation to my life when I don't know about them. I am also working to see things from both sides so that I get the full picture and can more accurately form my opinions on topics such as animal rights, prostitution, volunteering, etc. I have made goals to read at least one memoir or nonfiction book about every country that I visit. I am also trying to switch from watching my drama TV shows to watching documentaries on topics that I'm interested in but may not know a lot about.
5. I became more open-minded.
I listened to other people's beliefs and used those to question mine. I learned more and changed some of my views. I'm working to be more accepting of others' views as well, even if they do differ from mine.
6. I learned to slow down.
In today's world too often we're going going going. I know I'm guilty of this. I get out of bed at the last moment so that I rush around to get ready and then rush to class. I walk too fast. I always have a destination in mind and I don't take enough time to enjoy the moment. Thailand has taught me that sometimes I need to slow down and take in the world around me. There's no need to constantly be on a tight schedule when I go out.
7. I learned a smile goes a long way.
I spent a semester in a country that I don't speak the native language. Most Thais don't speak english either. This means that I've spent a semester playing charades and guessing around trying to hit the jackpot word that they'll recognize. While I may not be able to communicate with many Thai people, a smile and a laugh can go a long way.
I think that I have become a more well-rounded, happier, healthier, accepting, and adventurous person, thanks to this trip. Even though I'm going back home soon, I hope that I continue to develop these lessons and add on to the list. The learning doesn't stop here.
No comments:
Post a Comment