I like to think of myself as an independent person. I enjoy being alone sometimes and many people don't understand that. For example, I went away for college alone, I mean with no friends, and I had to figure it out by myself. Being alone gives you the opportunity to explore who you are and what you want for yourself. This happens even when you are traveling because when you see yourself in an unknown place you need to figure out the culture.
Lately, I have been traveling alone. This has forced me to meet people I would not normally meet. I think that being alone opens your options, if that is what you want. The trick is to always have an open mind and don't be scared of doing different things. For example, in December I traveled alone, well not alone but with a group of people I didn't know, and I met a guy who taught me to not be afraid and live your life to the fullest (you know who you are). Also, I met people from the place that made me realize how alike our cultures are. I didn't know we were as direct and affectionate. So, traveling alone can help you immerse in the culture and learn from it.
My latest "crazy" idea was to do an internship program in Israel. I am going to be living in Israel for two months, working in a mental hospital, and having the freedom to do whatever I feel like I need to do while I am there. This is a learning experience for me, since I am studying psychology, but it is also challenging because I do not speak Hebrew, or at least not fluently. Not only I do not speak the language, but I have to have contact with patients, who don't necessarily speak English. Yeah, I know you think I am crazy, but I am always up for a challenge.
After my first week here, I feel like those challenges are not that big. I can overcome those challenges. For example, the patients get excited when they see someone new and they try to communicate with you, even if they don't speak the language. The hospital staff is always there to help you if you need it. In other words, you are never alone. It is like living in a big community where you don't necessarily know everyone. This sense of community is what makes me love Israel and Venezuela. That is something we have in common, for us everyone is our brother and we will be there backing them up at all times. It is not crazy to explore other countries and cultures because you never know where life will take you.
Imagine that you never left your hometown and you are suddenly reassigned to a different country. How would you feel? How would you handle it if you have never done it before? I know being in an unknown place can be overwhelming, but it is better to overcome the fear of being an outsider than actually becoming the outsider. I think everyone should be open to learn about the world and the people that share the Earth with you because even if you think you have nothing in common, I am sure you will find something to connect with.
