Foreign Correspondent: Expanding your horizons and appreciating what they bring
By Jordan Oliver
The world is too big to limit ourselves to the confines of our comfort zone. The art of exploration is a gift, and shall it present itself before you, never feel “content enough” to pass it up. I have always been a person who is open to spontaneity and my current whereabouts can attest to that.
As I write from my apartment, nestled in the heart of Rome, I can barely feel my fingers—and I’m pretty sure my toes are going numb. I was told before I left not to worry about packing winter clothes, for apparently Rome tends to avoid the unbearable cold.
Try telling that to my scarf and three pairs of pants that I’ve been wearing, (at the same time), for the past week! We experienced a VERY rare snowfall this weekend—one that made for a magical visit to the Coliseum but not so magical residency.
Italy tends to be more conscious when it comes to conserving energy, and does not feel it necessary to keep our space heaters running throughout the day. So although I may be close to seeing my breath in my bedroom, my experience thus far has been a surreal one.
You really don’t realize how differently others live until you are fully immersed in their culture. On Jan. 24, the day I arrived in Rome, I was dropped off at my apartment and left to fend for myself. Not knowing where in the world I was, let alone the language, made for a nerve-racking beginning, but each day brings new and comforting knowledge.
The city of Rome is an incredible place, and I am blessed to have the opportunity to dive into its beauty. Being placed amidst the unfamiliar, roots in us a deep appreciation for wherever it is we call home. If you are given the chance to embark on a journey—to entangle yourself in the wonder of new—be grateful. You’ll soon discover just how much you’ve had to be grateful for, all along.