Leaving Home

I know this is severely delayed, but I didn't get Internet until late last week. Also, to be honest, I’m still settling in and exploring the area. So off my case, already! Jeez! Jerk.

All kidding aside, the first two weeks have both had their ups and downs. I guess I should start from the beginning. I left my mom’s house at 5:00 in the morning to head off to Pearson. The entire ride there, I kept wondering when I was going to start feeling the “Oh my God, I’m going to Korea for an entire year! What am I thinking?!” moment. Riding in the truck, I didn’t feel anything but tired. It was just another trip to the airport as far as I was concerned.

Then came the goodbyes.

I gave my mom and Art each a hug and hoped they didn’t worry themselves to death about me. (Particularly my mom.) Doris came inside the airport with me to help me lug the smaller suitcase. I turned to give her a hug and I suddenly couldn’t let go. As soon as I heard her start to cry, the waterworks came on hard. The thought of not seeing Doris’ face for an entire year was unbearable. For a brief moment, I honestly contemplated just bailing on the entire trip and staying home. It would make life so much easier.

But eventually we parted ways. I don’t know about her, but I was still sobbing like an idiot as I walked down the hall towards my gate. I must’ve looked like an idiot, but I didn’t care.

In the end, the moment of self-realization hit me when I was faced with losing that which was most precious to me in the world: my sister. I was able to (eventually) power through the emotions, and I sent her a message on Facebook just before getting on the plane. The message was about pushing and challenging yourself in life and never fearing the unknown. I was ready to face the unknown.

Doris and I post-shopping spree at Dylan's Candy Bar in New York City. Those snazzy hats we're wearing are actually donut-shaped pillows. I wish I'd brought mine to Korea.