It's been a joy and honor to share my experiences in Vietnam over the past few months. This is my final post, my "swan song." I hope my articles have inspired you to consider traveling, studying or living abroad in the future. Leaving the comforts of home can be frightening. Living in a different country, with a different language and culture, brings uncertainties and situations that we are never truly prepared for before experiencing them. Overcoming challenges, obstacles and adversity in a foreign country leads to personal growth and confidence that will benefit you for the rest of your life.
Traveling and living abroad constantly reminds me that the world doesn't revolve around my hometown, the United States or customs that I grew up with. People all over the world practice different religions, speak different languages and spend their free time in different ways. I've learned that you don't need many material possessions to live a happy life. I've seen the loving, smiling faces of people with very little money beam with happiness and gratitude for what they do have. I admire how present people are in the developing world. They don’t seem to be living in the past or the future. Their approach to life is "one day at a time" and "enjoy life, for it is a gift.”
