My last days have finally arrived. Even as I pack my bags, (I'm multi-tasking right now by the way) the fact that I'm leaving for good hasn't settled in. Maybe it will become real when I say bye to my family for the last time. Or maybe when I'm in the airport in Rome. Maybe not until Im in the plane over the Atlantic. Who knows?
All I know is that, although I am ridiculously sad that I have to leave this life behind, I've come to realize that it isnt the end of the world. My time here has taught me so much. I've had to struggle on my own, adjust, readjust, and adjust some more. I've messed up during my stay here, I have regrets for things I have done and for things I haven't done. In the end, this experience has only helped me grow, mature, and realize that I still have a lot more time in my life to make changes and mistakes, to have struggles, to have fun, to be happy, and to live life in general. My mind has been opened up to the world around me. I have learned so much about other countries and their cultures, but I have also learned that there is still so much more to be curious about and explore. I have found a new sense of independence, I've learned new things about my character, I've changed how I think about some things but stayed the exact same in other aspects. I will continue to find things that have changed or things that I would like to change about me, even after I have returned home. Even after my life returns to it's "normal routine" in America.
In the end, I have gained so much out of this experience. Another family. Another home. Another group of friends. A sense of pride for "my" country. A chance to be independent. And a huge chance to learn more than I ever have.
Although I will miss my Italian life every day, my return has been inevitable from day one, and I've made myself content with that fact now.
Now I better go finish packing all these clothes and all these memories or I will be staying up all night tomorrow!
L'ultimo salute e blog in Italia! See y'all soon.
Baci!
Emma xoxo
Ps: Happy 4th!!!
