This bridge year has been a roller coaster so far. Nothing could have possibly prepared me for what has happened. I have learned so much and have seen so much that it's hard to know what to think, much less put it into writing. Absolutely everything is different from what I was used to in the States. However, most of the things that I used to get on a regular basis are disposable. The one thing that is irreplaceable is my family.
Many times I don't mean to but I end up thinking about my family. At my apprenticeship there is a girl that I teach named Saniya. She looks exactly like my sister. The same little pony tails and braids, they even have the same mischievous smile. Being away from my family has really taught me to appreciate that I have them. It’s been hard, I mean I’ve lived with them my entire life to all of a sudden not see them for nearly 8 months. I spent my first birthday away from home this year and as great as it was with my new friends I couldn’t help but wish that my family was there. With the holidays coming up I doubt it will get any easier. Despite it being so difficult I think it is something that is necessary.
Life isn’t some water park where you have nothing but fun and eat junk food all day. Life is the crazy roller coaster that your friend dares you to go on and that you only agree to go on to impress your crush. You won't always be comfortable with where you are or what decisions you have to make but that's too bad. The best way to learn is by trial and error, you have to try it for yourself in order to know that what other people are saying is true.
Its been a tough few months but I’ve loved every second of it. Every challenge that presents itself is a new adventure to go on with my new friends. I can’t wait to see what obstacles the upcoming months hold. I know that whatever comes will be a learning experience and something to grow from.
