Dimples on the Edge

Here is my (continually running) list of some unexpected perks I have gained since making the leap to live life in a country outside of the United States:

1. Bodies aren’t weird – I no longer have a fear of being perceived in my body the way I used to. Overall, bodies are less of a big deal than they were back home, and it really is quite a relief. Back in the US, I had a gym membership, and would NEVER use the shower facilities. In fact, I don’t even recall if the gym had facilities. Now, however, I have gotten to a place where I can be unclothed in the changing facilities amongst all the other various and wonderful bodies, and not feel peculiar about it. It is truly freeing, both in time and in spirit
2. Salt & sugar aren’t in everything – color me surprised that additives, especially the supreme addicters, are not over-saturated in foods. Sure, I occasionally mourn the loss of flavor, but I have certainly grown accustomed to the change. What I used to believe was a dampening or muting of flavor in food, I now recognize as my own long history of unhealthy US food coloring my tastebuds. I can enjoy food now for more of its natural essence, no extra things necessary
3. Convenience is no longer king – living outside of the US really teaches you to sloooooooooow dooooooooown. The emphasis that is placed on getting everything right away, and RIGHT NOW, simply doesn’t exist, at least not with the same sense of urgency. Servers get to you when they feel like it, shops may not have what you need, and appointments begin when others feel ready. It has really helped with my own ability to prioritize and recognize what is urgent. Patience has never been my virtue, but it has become my practice
4. Spontaneity is more accessible (walking is easier than driving) – now that I walk everywhere, it opens me up to a world of possibility: wandering into unexpected shops, stopping to chat on the sidewalk, and simply being more open and receptive to opportunities that can arise from any avenue. The sheer magnitude of new adventures lays out ahead of me everyday in a way that never existed when I was driving everywhere. In those days, you had your starting point and destination. Now, every part of my journey holds the glorious potential to be a new adventure.
5. Prioritization realigns – my gratitude to not be a part of the cookie-cutter, accomplishment, and productivity lifestyle that I existed in before is boundless. I have been able to focus more on my relationships with loved ones, and my relationship with myself. I “waste” time in manners that feel energizing and get to share and learn new parts of me. Discovery happens everyday, and it is such a joy to experience.

Overall, living outside of my home country has given me a greater appreciation for the simple and everyday moments where joy can be found. I feel a freedom to stop and marvel at a spider building a web, or give in to the impromptu whim of wandering down an unknown street and into a hole-in-the-wall cafe. The occasional listlessness and longing for the comforts of home still aren’t enough to outweigh just how much life has improved.