A Special Journey

This blog entry will be a little different because I am writing from back in my hometown in Connecticut. My best friend Jonathan past away last week in a motorcycle accident. He is the reason why I chose to go abroad. I've grown up my whole life in the same town and I've never been exposed to any other culture. Jonathan was my neighbor and I would cross the street almost every day to his house. The amount of steps that I have taken coming and going from his house are enough to travel across America and back. But Jonathan knew there was more out there for me. He was right. As I stepped foot in Firenze, I felt in the air that I was embarking on something brand new. It was something that would take time to adjust and adapt to. It took a while to navigate and learn the ways of locals. From realizing to bring my own bags to the market, to finding the cheapest spots to get a panini, these little things are what help you become more independent and to broaden your perspective of this planet. As I sit at home after the funeral of Jonathan, I reflect on a journey that many dream to experience, where very few have the opportunity to do so. Being around loved ones celebrating the life of Jonathan, I can appreciate this past month and a half so much more. I am so blessed to be a part of this program and to be able to continue on this journey when I arrive back to Firenze in two weeks. I will use the memory of my friend and everyone on this earth that isn't able to travel as motivation to carry on and finish strong overseas.