Follow the Journey

About six months ago (wow) I found out that I would not be able to return to my school, the University of Rochester, for the fall semester. At first I was completely crushed. I was just winding down the hardest period of my life so far so I tried to be brave for my family and friends who were all worried about me, but I was heart-broken. However, this final blow was also the beginning of the greatest journey of a lifetime. This semester has truly changed my life and of course I have India to thank for that but much more important are the people who got me here and the people I’ve met along the way.
To my group: I cannot thank all of you enough for being who you are. Each of you has made me laugh, pissed me off, challenged me, opened my eyes, and made me smile. Thank you for making me see that families can be forged from the most ragtag group of people in a completely random place. I will carry a part of each of you with me forever.
#champagneformyrealfriendsrealpainformyshamfriends
To my homestays: Thank you for taking me into your home and treating me like a part of the family. You’ve all inspired me to strive to understand and accept many different kinds of people who may be unlike myself.
To the random friends we’ve made (Sean): Thank you for inspiring me to travel. Meeting other travelers on this trip was one of my favorite parts and the world suddenly seems a whole lot smaller but a whole lot more interesting. Stay chill.
To India: Thank you for teaching me what’s really important in life… personal sanity and survival. You’ve tested my limits literally every day and I guess I have to thank you for that. Also thank you to the Indians who have smiled at me, yelled at me, harassed me, and laughed with me or at me. I’m sure the humility I’ve been forced to adopt will come in handy one day.
To my friends and family: I really can’t thank you enough. I know exactly who my friends are and I know you know who you are too. You’ve supported me in a hard time and lifted me up to have this amazing experience. I grow and I am who I am because of you.
To my parents: Thank you thank you thank you. I love both of you so much. I had no idea how lucky I was until I came here. I don’t have words to describe my gratitude. Please forgive me for all of the attitude and trouble I’ve given in the past and that is surely yet to come. I love you, see you tomorrow.
Well, that’s it India! Bon voyage to me –Leine