Catching a Moment

I feel it only fair to warn you that this blog post is completely personal and contains no insights into Russian culture whatsoever--so if you're still with me, thanks!

Many of you who know me well know that I am restless, maybe a bit of a wanderer. I like exploring places, learning new things, and moving on. I've spent most of my college career chasing purpose and trying to define what it means to "live life to the fullest." I think that's why I'm so keen on traveling. And while I certainly have not answered any questions yet, I was able to catch just a fleeting moment.

Last week was rough, emotionally and physically. I was sick and homesick and feeling like I was ready to quit. But this week has brought with it a surge of renewed vigor (unfortunately for some that means I've got my debating zest back--осторожно!). Between exploring more of the city, the change in weather, and getting to know the people here even better, I've really felt more content than I have in a while. Sure, I've still got wanderlust, I'm still bitten by the travel bug. But tonight I stopped on my way down the stairwell and I looked through the window out over the lit city. I was listening to "Free" by the Zac Brown Band on my iPod (one of my favorites) and I couldn't help but think, "I'm as free as I'll ever be, right now." I'm here, in a place I always imagined I wanted to get to but never thought I would, learning about a language and a culture I've always loved, doing things I've always wanted to do. And I paused for a moment looking over the city, thinking about purpose and living and feeling content. And, for just a fleeting but wonderful moment, I thought, damn, if this isn't living, I'm not sure what is...