It is Loud Here

Ireland, so far, has been people.

Some sights and languages are different, but there are still the many unique social channels to tune into. My richest experience, as I mentioned briefly before, here has been a global perspective on empathy. The bulk of my time has been a tactile exploration of what I've been told my whole life: that we, humans, are all so unique, and all so connected.

Cutting my 21st birthday cake

America is not alone, and we do have a reputation outside of our shores.
I've seen it, and it's not much different than one might expect.
I have also observed also a similar sense of humor across cultures. That laughter has brought me hope. I've noticed its unitive power. I imagine the news, the votes, and the discussions that I and all these other people will have when talking about the world, when we return to our corners.
I have hope that there, at the root of their discussions to be had, will resonate the love and laughter in our relationships formed here.

My first Irish rain

I have hope, hope, and hope again.



The honeymoon is over, too.
There are too many opportunities. In order to experience any, I must miss so many more. This tour, that tour, a night out, a good night's sleep, or good academic performance.

I spend some days (especially the early mornings) searching for creature comforts: sugar, tea, television shows, Facebook messages, warm clothes, snacks. I miss home.
There are less things to munch here. It is expensive. I get nervous when there's nothing to munch on. I've been nervous lately.

I feel also that what is expected of me is ambiguous. There are high expectations for Irish students (now my colleagues), but how about me? I will not graduate here. How much does my performance really matter back home? To some degree, it will, but I will really take what I actually learn.

What can I learn in Ireland uniquely?

A stump carved into a throne I found

I return to the love I've shared with my international friends, and I look again at my Irish colleagues.
I consider balance, and naturally, my relationship with time and money.


I've been saving so much of both for my trip, so now will I finally feel justified to squander it? Will I be any more generous because I am here? I've been just as careful with money as I was before. I do not count what I have, but I am hesitant to spend it when surrounded by grand opportunities to explore.


I am of the belief that my time here is due to a force outside of myself.
I am a passenger, on this, the most independent act I've yet participated in.
I believe this force, or this spirit will be what decides where best I can give to this place, and, reflectively, where I will receive the most fruit.

I resolve, then, to the spirit.
I pray for the courage to follow when I hear it and the patience to listen when I don't.
That is all I have and all I need.