A little introspection

I just thought I'd share some of the mental changes I've been going through while here.

Starting out on the trip I tried to completely integrate myself entirely into Athenian culture and lifestyle. This seemed perfectly logical to me but I feel that I may have gotten a little carried away. During my initial days here I honestly considered staying here for the rest of my life. As funny as it sounds now, I seriously considered it.

As time goes on the more I realize how much I love the U.S. and all of the opportunities and benefits I have as an American. I have definitely taken a lot of things for granted. Not to say that Athens is not a wonderful place or that I am not trying to fit in or learn about the culture but I feel that earlier on I may have gone through a slight identity struggle where I completely wanted to remove myself from everything American and become completely Greek. It sounds really weird writing this out, but I honestly think it was the case; maybe it was because it was my first time legitimately outside of the country or maybe it was for other reasons. Who knows.

I there are so many things I love here in Athens: people who will drop everything to talk with you and share stories about their lives, the street markets full of Greek chatter, smiles, and fresh produce, the cafes where you are looked at strangely if you leave before less than an hour or two have passed, and not to forget, the artifacts. On the other hand I truly love the U.S. and look forward to the days when I can come home and personally share all of my stories with everyone. Athens has definitely caused me to look at who I am as a person and I'm loving every minute I spend here.

Forgive my ramble.