My time in Nepal is coming to an end. As I write this journal, I'm sitting down facing Annapurna South, one of the tallest mountains in the world. The sun is so bright and hurts my eyes when I look directly at the snow-covered peaks. I feel so lucky to have experienced Nepal in so many ways. I came for the mountains, but I leave with so much more. I leave belonging to a new family that cared for me, even before knowing me. They taught me the importance of cherishing family. I leave with a deeper appreciation of my own family and everything they have done and continue to do for me. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with a cheerful “namaste” (hello) and was offered help when I needed it. Even at the top of the world: At the summit of one of our treks, we realized we had forgotten our money in the hotel. But the man running the tea house there still treated us to black tea as we rested and enjoyed the view. Nepali people have taught me the importance of living each day with kindness. Giving is a form of receiving.
I came to Nepal because I know what I love in life: having meaningful connections with people, living in a peaceful environment and being constantly in awe of being alive. My time in Nepal confirmed these personal values, and this experience will guide me in the future to always live a life I love.
