Finding Familiarity

The time finally came. The anticipation was over. My alarm clock buzzed and Annie looked at me with her droopy eyes, thinking it must have been a mistake. Why would I ever choose to wake up at 4am. I was about to start my 32 hour journey from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Chennai, India.

Goodbyes and transitions have never been my forte. I seem to make everything much more sentimental and emotional than they need to be. But this time, even though the tears were flowing, I knew I was ready. I have wanted to live in India for years and was unable to because of health issues. I have fantasized this chaotic land of millions of people, deep poverty, intense heat and humidity, and dirt and I still couldn’t tell you why.

I had 3 layovers before reaching Chennai, but luckily I met up with coworkers along with way. Particularly on the last flight from Frankfurt to Chennai, it was easy to spot the AISC teachers—the only non-Indian and quite loud-speaking passengers on the flight. I found myself seeking the familiar. I watched Frozen for the millionth time (even though I watched it a week prior), I listened to Birdy and other artists that remind me of love ones and home. Why did I do that? I felt at peace being around other Americans even though we were the obvious minority.

I chose this life where everything will be different. I knew I wouldn’t be able to hike outside my back door. I knew I couldn’t eat copious amouts of brie and cheddar while drinking wine at the park. I knew I wouldn’t be able to stroll around outside my house if I had a stressful day at work. These are part of the package deal. I can choose to embrace it or I can fight it. Now it’s time for me to realize all the things I can do here that I can’t do in the US. And as my principl said, we came to India for “different.”