4 Things

Miraflores, Lima, Peru

There are things you just can't prepare yourself for when you enter another World. In less than 24 hours, I was submerged into a pool of culture I had never known before. Even only after a few days, I learned 4 pretty interesting things.

1. Everyone's travel journey is different.

This one probably means the most to me. As I listen to some of my roommates' stories, or other students in my ISA exchange program, I almost felt behind knowing this was the first time I had ever traveled outside my home country. I did eventually, after a few days, realize this is okay. Not everyone gets to rush off right away and explore. I have so much time ahead of me to travel the World and I shouldn't feel down about this being my first experience. After all, not many people ever leave their home country so I am extremely fortunate for this opportunity.

2. You will not learn a language over night (or even a few days).

For some reason I struggle with this one the most. All of my roommates except one, can speak fluent or at least really good Spanish. It is very hard to keep up with conversation so I do a lot of listening. I don't want them to stop and speak English just because I am behind. I will only learn by listening. In fact, I have learned so much already!

3. 4 months is a really long time, and a really short time.

I keep asking my friends, "So how is life?" or "Anything new?" It feels like I have been here for weeks already and it has only been a few short days. Sometimes I find myself wondering if I will end up here forever or something crazy like that. Yet, I find myself planning different trips and excursions in my head and thinking "Oh wow I better get on it before time runs out!" I know I have to live this trip day by day, but it's hard when you are anticipating so many exciting trips and adventures!

4. Exploring alone isn't a bad thing.

At first I was a littler nervous venturing out on my own, but I realized sometimes it's good. I get to go eat where I want and shop where I want no questions asked. Bringing friends is always fun of course, don't get me wrong. But we all need a little alone time, even in an unfamiliar place.

So no matter where your travel journey takes you, or where this life in general takes you, just keep an open mind and heart about things. You will find that you learn and appreciate much more this way.

~Feed the Soul