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Reflecting at the Roman Baths, you know.
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I remember sitting in the Callaway Building at Emory,
casually checking my email between classes as my eyes darted downward to see
the subject line about my acceptance into the London 2012 program. Though
adrenaline pumped through my body before, during, and after reading that email,
there was no way in anticipating the truly incredible experience that I was
about to have. Looking back to six weeks ago, I left Milan with anxiety and
nerves interspersed with excitement. My time in London will be something that I
remember for the rest of my life. Going home, I don’t necessarily feel like a
completely changed person. What I have gotten out of this experience is a
better understanding of myself, my interests, and my love for travel. I’ve
learned that I can navigate a city on my own, be almost as good of a personal
travel agent as my mom is, and open myself up to new life experiences. I’ve
learned that it’s okay to not have a plan, as much as I like structuring my
day, and just go with the flow to see where your footsteps take you. I’ve felt
the power of a unified and spirited nation, from being here during the Queen’s
Diamond Jubilee and singing with thousands of people in Hyde Park. I’ve
expanded my understanding of the Olympics to a great extent, and have had a
taste of the extensive work that goes into being a host city. I’ve confirmed my
love of learning about a wide array of subjects, whether it be from onsite
visits, tours, guest speakers, or museums. I’ve become connected with the arts
and theatre again in a way which I know will motivate me to seek out exhibits and
performances on my own for personal enjoyment. I’ve broadened my palate, from
Polish sandwiches to Paella to Perfect Chicken. I’ve made connections with
individuals from different backgrounds and interests, united by our time and
experiences in London. I’ve learned to open beer and cider bottles solely using
my hand and a table ledge, a skill perfected over six weeks without a bottle
opener. I’ve crossed things off of a bucket list, and instead of regretting
what I didn’t get to-am saving them for next time I am in the wonderful city of
London.
I’ve
been incredibly reflective upon my time here in the past week. Like I have
said, things as simple as walking around various parts of the city to take in
the sites, smells, and noises have been so meaningful in themselves. I’ll miss
the aroma of Yo! Sushi, .60 miles into normal route for running. I’ll miss
feeling impressive when I jaywalk first, and have native Londoners follow my
lead rather than me follow theirs. I’ll miss the necessity of getting
caffeinated at Café Nero before lectures. I’ll miss the “Righto”’s, “Mhmm. Yup.
That’s right.”’s, and the sidebars..not to mention the “Am I right, ladies?”
and “Helloooo felllasss.” I’ll miss the friends I made here, a group that
meshed so well together from the start-guaranteed to make the best of a boring
lecture or to have a great time together regardless of where we went out. I’ll
miss the diversity and possibility of everything London. I could go on forever,
but intricacies above reflect the minute parts of my experience here that truly
made it all the while. I’m overwhelmed with gratefulness for the opportunity,
to both travel to Italy with my team but also largely to have been in London at
this specific point in time. Thankful beyond measure to my parents in getting
me here, and those who have aided in or journeyed with me along the way. London
will forever have a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait to go back
there again someday.
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