Back in America for over a month now, I can say that a year away has left me without any greater understanding of my own culture. In fact, I feel more confused about America than ever. It has been challenging to adjust to life here, much in the same way it was so challenging to adjust to life in Cambodia. I am trying to remind myself of that 3-month hurdle... after about 3 months in Cambodia, although things still weren't always easy, life began to make some sort of sense--ie, I could get a tuk-tuk from Point A to Point B, had made a few friends, was understanding how to teach a little bit, was settling into life in Phnom Penh. I think adjusting back to being in America, albeit incredibly easier than adjusting to life in Cambodia, will just take a little time. Growing pains, I guess?
In life updates, I'm currently in Long Beach, CA and planning yet another location change! This time it will be on the same continent, don't worry! I am moving to New York City in late November. I have felt for a while that it is the right place for me, at least for right now. Perhaps it is the right time to jump headfirst into a big city.
It is a risk; I don't have a job lined up there (YET!) and it is a whole new weather climate, but the last big risk I took (Cambodia, duh!) turned out well, didn't it? I never realized I was a "risk-taker." But then when I think about it, hmm... maybe that time I went sky-diving counts as "risk-taker" behavior? Or, you know, that time I moved to another country (Cambodia, duh!)? The countless times I've performed on stage or shared my writing, those were risks in a way, too, I suppose. Now that I think about it, I live for and LOVE the risks I've taken! Perhaps risk-taking has too many negative connotations.
More updates to follow soon as I tackle the next country: New York City!
