The Reality of Things

It's been a little over three weeks since I arrived in London and the newness is wearing off. It's starting to feel less like a vacation and more like the realization of being here for the semester is kicking in. I'm really excited about that! But there are a few drawbacks...

Have you ever been to a store, looked at a shelf and not seen a single brand you recognize; then, when you finally find something familiar, it tastes completely different? Have you ever said a word or phrase that seems normal to you, only to discover that everything you are used to saying in casual conversation means something completely different where you are? Have you ever wanted to share in the excitement of  a close friend's engagement, but when you reach for the phone you remember you can't call her? Have you ever been looking forward to a special occasion several years in the making, then had to watch it take place miles away without you? 

This is what homesickness looks like. It's missing your favorite chocolate, only to find something similar looking that doesn't taste similar at all. It's having to change your everyday speech even when the people you're talking to speak the same native language. It's congratulating a friend on the biggest event in her life via Facebook, instead of being able to see her and give her a hug. It's missing the 100th Anniversary of Homecoming your senior year at the university you call your home. 

This is what homesickness looks like.

I wouldn't trade my time here for anything! But with the ups come the downs. Life can't be all royal palaces and VIP birthdays and exciting traveling adventures.  Your have to pay a price to gain all of that. And for me that price is not having the little things that make home special. But most importantly, it's missing out on spending time with the ones I love. But I guess that's just the reality of things.