you are about to embark on what can be the most thrilling moments of your life. it never quite hit me that I was going abroad for 4 months, and yet it never did. it was always like a dream that I was living in. you may have the same feeling, or maybe you’re terrified of what’s ahead. whatever feeling you have, appreciate all the emotions that surround you. because the world around us is beautiful, and exciting, and unique. yes, it can be dangerous, but life itself is dangerous. so, do not be afraid. when you put that dangerous thought of fear in your head, you will only see things as bad, even if they are not.
other countries and cultures have different social cues than your own, so don’t always assume something as strange, because chances are it’s normal for them. but this does not mean to forget your instinct. open up to new ways of life, and something will grow inside of you, that you never thought of before. trust that life has brought you to that very moment for some odd reason, and you must be willing to accept whatever fate it may be. be courageous in your own mind.
live life free, because you are in the perfect moment to live spontaneously. spend that extra dollar on something that makes you smile. adventure on your own. meet new people. gain an extra pound and try new delicious food. send gifts back to your loved ones to show how much you appreciate the gift they gave you. smile.
take care of yourself. you do not need to do something amazing every day. rest when you need. but do not let all of these moments go to waste because of fear. because fear itself can be scary. I saw a quote that said “sometimes fear won’t go away. so, you’ll have to do it afraid.”
don’t be overdramatic, be overenthusiastic of where you are. spread love. change views. appreciate. because that is what you signed up for, whether you knew it or not.
and for the love of god. live as if you fly home tomorrow and never get to return. because sooner than you know, it will be the night before your flight home, and you’ll be sitting there asking where all the time has gone.
and then you’ll be the one telling someone to enjoy the chance to go abroad.
good luck and remember to live.
