Way More Cactuses

When I first came to Peru, I was expecting to notice many differences from the States almost immediately. Now, there definitely are a few, but I didn't really notice them right away. I mean sure, there are way more cactuses in peoples' yards than there are in New Jersey, but nothing really stuck out to me (no pun intended). Anyway, if you go to an unfamilar place, I think looking for differences can be kind of a debbie-downer. Because you are actively seeking ways to contrast. Why not look for ways to compare?

For example, I live in Lima which is the current captial of Peru. It is a beautiful city and reminds me so much of Philadelphia. Like Philly, there is so much history in Lima. I learn something new everyday. There are tons of museums and amazing street food. There are different parks to enjoy and taxis everywhere. The life I live here is actually pretty similar to the one I left behind for the moment. Other than the fact I get to travel to all of these unbelievable destinations and see the most breathtaking views, of course. Sure the buildings may look different, the language is different and even the food can be different. But these differences are such a minor factor in the life I am currently living. In Lima, I have really discovered who I am as a person and I think that was kind of the point of me coming here.

I guess you could say, that is the biggest difference. Back home, I experienced heartbreak, let-downs, illness and all kinds of life lessons that hurt me tremendously. I'm not saying this is a bad thing, but I am saying that here in Peru is where I am experiencing friendship, laughter, culture and all kinds of new and beautiful life lessons. It's like, I went through all the hard stuff so that I could get here; to all the good stuff. Of course I have enjoyed life in New Jersey beyond belief, but this chapter has opened up a new kind of happiness for me.

What I am trying to explain is, the way life differs here from the States, is in the best way possible. Not all differences are a bad thing. And not all comparisons are a good thing. I think this city has taught me more about myself than I had ever hoped it would. It has completely exceeded my expectations. I have always tried to be as selfless as possible, trying to make everyone around me happy. Well now, this time I get to be selfish. I get to take advatage of this awesome time in my life. And as grateful as I am to everyone who helped me get here, I have no one to thank but myself. Because without my own willpower and drive, I would have never even considered coming here.

I'm 22 years old and there is so much more for me to learn. I haven't even scratched the surface of what this life has to offer me. Ever since I was diagnosed in 2016, I have lived my life completely different. I live more freely and with more spontaneity. Because life is about freedom and experience. It's a choice you make; and it's a choice I made.

PS. Thank you to Marissa McDonough for the inspiration on this post!

~Feed the Soul