Not Just How to Survive

I turn away from my parents' crying faces and make my way through the airport security line, armed with my passport in one hand and a list of planes, buses, and taxis I will need to catch in the other, I realize I am leaving the deserts of Phoenix for the beaches of Chile. I find myself repeating the idea, "I can do this. I will survive." As I disembark the plane in Santiago the goal of surviving transforms into an ongoing game plan. And as I settle into this new country, the first several months here are a manifestation of this drive to survive.

Nearly nine months after my arrival in Chile, I realize that Chile taught me not just how to survive but how to thrive.

I came here with the overwhelming determination that I would survive. I would pass classes, meet people, improve my language (my roommate reminds me that improving my language was easy considering what I was able to say when I arrived :), be involved with Rotary, learn about Chile, etc.

But what I did not expect, what I did not plan for, or really imagine would happen was that I would thrive in Chile.

I would not only pass classes but I would learn and experience camaraderie with some of my wonderful classmates. I would not only meet people but I would have amazing roommates and new friends. I would not only improve my language but I would also be able to really connect with people. I would not only be involved with Rotary but I would also be involved with other organizations and find a new job for the following year. I would not only learn about Chile but I would also learn about myself.

After months of surviving, somewhere I transitioned to thriving. A transition that I could not have made alone, a transition made possible by many. I realize that I am thriving thanks to my family, my friends in the United States, my Rotary family here and in the Arizona, my friends in Chile, and all the people who contributed and continue to invest in me and in support of my journey. So thank you, thank you, thank you for being a part of my transition. I feel honored, overwhelmed, and undeservingly fortunate to have so many incredible people pour into my life and support me. When I look out over the Chilean landscape and think about preparing for my journey soon back to Arizona, I am grateful that my goal to survive created space where I could thrive.