Sunday, May 25, 2008

Back to Reality

Looking back on the whirlwind semester in Barcelona is like looking back on a dream. Did it really happen? Did I really visit all those amazing places, meet all those interesting people and have all those memorable adventures? I still vividly remember the surreal feeling of getting off the L7, walking up to my apartment, and packing the last of my clothes before catching a cab to the airport to go home. I still remember the heart wrenching moment when I saw Barcelona fade into the distance from my window seat. It was exactly a month ago today.

Was it too good to be true? Being back in central New York makes Barcelona seem even more like a figment of my imagination. How did I survive going from a one stop light town to living in Barcelona? And how am I able to survive my return. Barcelona has spoiled me. Never again will life be that carefree, exciting and mind-opening all at once. Whether it was trying a new night spot, wandering through a new part of town, or meeting a new friend, everyday offered something unique. But life is not like that in upstate New York. Coming home brought me back to reality. The problem is what I used to be content with, just isn't enough anymore. I have not stopped feeling restless since my return from a life of constant activity to the doldrums of home.

What I have to thank Barcelona for most is my new sense of adventure. I discovered through various travels that I love finding my way around a city. Its like putting a puzzle together and every time you piece together a new section you begin to see the whole picture. While I have always dreamed of moving to a city after graduation, Barcelona has given me the confidence to know I can do it. So will it be Boston, NYC or Philly? I have heard good things about Chicago? Also, I have never been to the west coast. Who knows, maybe I'll find myself back over the pond? As the chapter of my life that this blog captured comes to a close, my hope now is to find my Barcelona again. What I mean is I hope to find a place and a life that not only offers me adventure and excitement but also that inspires me and leaves me feeling content. Not to much to ask for, right? Let's hope not.

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