A few weeks ago Tara at Turquoise Poppy wrote about things she’s learned since coming to Turkey. As imitation is the sincerest form of flattery I’ve made my own list.
– Living within walking distance of a beach in a hot climate is a terrific and wonderful thing.
– Communication doesn’t require language
– But language is very important to me.
– Cooking a meal from scratch from whatever is in the kitchen is a skill everyone should have (the art is in making said meal taste great!)
– Children require more thoughtful care/diplomatic skills/peacekeeping than babies.
– Marriage is the start of a relationship.
– Little girls like pink, no matter how much you discourage them.
– Trees grow slowly, especially if planted when very young saplings.
– Home-grown vegetables do taste better.
– Someone has always been there before, though they may be forgotten by history.
– Connections made through the internet are as real and important as friends in the same physical space.
What have you learned lately?
Here's another thing to ponder Catherine, do you think we would have learned these same lessons had we never moved to Turkey?
I've learned to not be attached to the highs and lows – as time goes on, I sometimes forget I'm an expat, then something happens and I realized I'm clueless about how to respond to something. Both on a personal and external level, less attachment has taught me that the wheel will continue turning, no matter what.
A lovely post, Catherine, and thank you for reminding us to consider our progress along the path, Tara.
I'd have a VERY long list! But the big ones:
– that adage “the older I get the less I know” is true – and that it's okay;
– to seek balance, while knowing that the lows teach me just as much (if not more) than the highs;
– to share a love and work partnership is the most challenging 'job' I've ever had, yet the most fulfilling;
– that I'm happiest when living within sight of large bodies of water;
– living in an ancient place is more invigorating than in a modern one;
– that I need the stimulation of multiple cultures, whether I'm traveling or meeting travelers.
And yes, Tara, I'd be a less developed person if I had not moved here, or at least away from California.
Wise words, ladies, thank you for commenting.
Tara I doubt I'd have learned much of it. The alternative path is certainly not more inviting.
Rose I know that sinking feeling of 'did I mess up' only to realise I couldn't possibly have known what was appropriate. I need a bit less attachment to the idea that I should be perfect.
Catherine it's great to see that list. It's such a perfect picture of you!
No matter what happens in Turkey. Life changes and goes on. Don’t dwell over the past. The future is always brighter