Well, the journey has begun. Just
one week ago, I was strategizing ways to fit my wardrobe under my bed to vacate
the closet for my subletter. I was chastising myself for failing my “packing
extra light” goal. I was laughing at a bar on Hermosa Pier with a few of my
favorite Los Angeles friends.
Now, as I relish a few minutes in
front of a fan in the very warm but beautiful Istanbul, I am preparing to head
to my second country in a week. I can’t believe how fast my four days in Turkey
have flown! I have walked countless miles soaking in the Turkish sites. I have
had some good windows of friend time, with my hostess Shannon. I have enjoyed
the juxtaposition of old and new that this city offers, the milieu of cultures.
I have had some delicious food and have enjoyed playing with my camera again.
About a week ago, I was talking to
my brother about the uncertainty intrinsic in my next six months. I said
something along the lines of “I have no idea where I’ll be sleeping for 90% of
my trip.” David responded, “As in you don’t know what the bedrooms will look
like?” To which I had to admit, “As in, I don’t even know which countries I’ll
be in some weeks, much less who I’ll be staying with.” We both laughed and I
felt that flutter of anxiety patter in my belly. But the truth is, when I think
about it, I am confidant that things will work out. I have countless offers for
segments already. I have a network of people who believe in my project. I just
don’t know how all the pieces will fit together.
This week, I have been sleeping on
the couch of a good friend, Shannon, in a suburb of Istanbul. Shannon and I
overlapped for one year of graduate study at UCLA and now she teaches at an
international school here. She was generous enough to host me during her first
week of school (which all educators know is an exhausting week without the
added burden of house guests!). I am so grateful for her hospitality!
My beautiful hostess :)
No comments:
Post a Comment