It's officially the last day. I mean, technically yesterday was my last full day in Dublin, but my flight leaves in about 4 hours for Boston, and I can honestly say I'm not ready. I apologize ahead of time if this post is so short, but I've been up for about an hour and cried probably about 4 separate times, so bear with me.
When I first came to Ireland, I was anxious, enthralled, (a little sleep-deprived) and terribly excited to start this new journey. Landing in Dublin strangely felt like coming home. It was a new chapter in my life – and the first time being away from my home – aside from college.
But Dublin welcomed me with open arms, and despite the “shit show” that came along with it the first couple of months, I fell in love.
These past 10 months have been so wonderful, and full of the best memories - which makes it all the harder for me to say goodbye. I had my leaving drinks for Guinness a couple of weeks ago, and for the most part I was okay - until I said goodbye to one of my friends who had to go home early. I think that's when it started hitting me, that this would be one of the last times I'd see these people. At least for a little while. I've never been good at saying goodbyes, so I kept saying "see you soon" as if I'm coming back in a couple of months. But I think I've also realized that Ireland is my home - and I'll definitely be coming back.
About a month ago I was listening to a song and a line stuck out to me - A hundred bad days made a hundred good stories.
And it’s completely true.
I’ve had some of the most difficult times while living here. I was unemployed for over 2 months – in a country far from home, trying to survive on ramen noodles and toast for meals, and deciding whether I was going to throw the towel in and go back home. I had people constantly telling me to just come home, but I knew I’d regret it for the rest of my life, so I stayed.
And I haven’t looked back since.
When I first came here I (very naively) thought I’d be visiting several of the countries on my list. I had high hopes – and unfortunately, I was only able to visit one other country while I was here - Scotland. And it was for a very short, if not lovely two days. So much for a different country every other month, right?
But, I also got to see even more of a country that I’ve grown to cherish and love with each day.
I got to fall in love with photography again.
I learned how to take getting let go from a job for the first time.
I forged some of the strongest friendships I’ve ever had, with the most wonderful people.
I learned how to travel on my own – and see the world through my own eyes.
I fell in love with a place, I’m lucky to have called home.
I got the hardest, but most rewarding 10 months of my life and I’m grateful for every second of it.
Until next time, Dublin.
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