Firstly, I had always declared that I NEVER wanted to go to China. The perceived impressions I had received of that country's culture simply were not attractive...Not to mention my struggle with the language. Yet here I was, wandering around a tiny portion of that giant country, and blown away at finding it vastly different from my initial negative apprehensions. The locals I met along the way consistently proved me wrong, surprising me with their friendliness and helpfulness - they went out of their way to help us when we were lost, gave directions, and even paid for our train ticket fares! They were even patient and kindly amused at my terrible broken mandarin.
It was also my first time backpacking. And the sense of freedom and adventure and independence was addictive... Seven days was definitely NOT enough. No, not even close.
Thirdly, I was at the start of a new chapter in life with a new job. I had no idea what to expect, no way of knowing what the future holds for me. It was like the road I was traveling on - I couldn't see the end of it. All I knew was that it was going to be an exciting and incredible journey that would change my life and me in many ways.. And that, for me, was enough.
Now I look back and marvel at what an amazing journey the last couple of months have been, and how blessed I am... it is way beyond what that girl sitting on the road could have hoped or imagined.
I am grateful.
"I made up my mind not to care so much about the destination, and simply enjoy the journey."
- David Archuleta
