~:[CH11 - Day 190]:~ Fulfillment

 
~:[CH11 - Day 190]:~ Fulfillment

Time and time again, I canceled my flight to Japan wondering when the next time I would be able to return. It was a little challenging emotionally as I longed to see my friends and had a load of work for a project that I needed to get started. Finally, the paperwork cleared and I was on my way. My excitement was beyond anything I could imagine and the trip itself did not disappoint. While I didn't always have the freedom to do whatever I wanted as there was work to do, I still had the freedom to do most of what I wanted to in the span of time that I had. I saw my friends and family, visited places I wanted to see, and made new connections that I did not necessarily expect to make. The beauty of city and nature, the love of friends and family, and just the ability to appreciate a place I've gone to so many times, but learned to cherish even more. I could have stayed another month time permitting, but responsibilities called me home. As I flew back, I was sad, excited to be back home, yet longing to see my friends again. I'll be missing stopping at the convenience store on the walk home from the station, stopping at a restaurant for a quick bite or taking the train anywhere I needed to be. It will be wonderful to hold a regular conversation, but will miss the discomforts that motivate you to work harder to understand and find a way to overcome obstacles. As I look back, I realize how busy I was as each day I came back exhausted, rarely having downtime, but part of it was because I forced myself to explore as I didn't want to take my time there for granted. My friends and family sent me messages as I left, leaving me with a greater longing to return again soon. Flights home from Asia always create the longest days, as I arrived home before noon on the same day I left. I enjoyed lunch and boba before unpacking, doing laundry and settling back in. The piles of work await me this week, but my batteries are recharged and for now, I'll enjoy the lasting memories I made during this trip. For everyone, there is that one place where you feel the most content, whether at home, a local vacation spot or a place far away and for me, that place of fulfillment has always been Japan. To my friends and family who made this trip special, I am filled with gratitude that we had the opportunity to meet and I look forward to seeing you again soon. Until then ...