So, I figured this will be my last post while I'm actually HERE in Taiwan. I'll probably do a short blurb about the journey back when I'm in the states. But for now, this is it y'all.
So, yesterday morning I had the day to sort of get caught up on stuff. I worked on reading books for class, Shakespeare and completing stuff for my new job. I was super productive. Within the midst of that, I went to 7/11 down the street all by myself, and ordered food in Chinese. Granted I knew what I was going to get and rehearsed how to say it several times, but I did it! It was a really cool achievement.
In the afternoon and evening, we went to meet two friends I had met the other day at Neon's house to go check out the Kaohsiung Spring Arts Festival. Last night's showing was 50 songs from 50 of the best movies that were made, directed, casted and produced in Taiwan specifically. It was a true testament to their culture! When we got there, the two new friends offered me a gift of my own chopsticks. I almost started crying. Before the show, the three of us went to get some food as well as a drink. We got to the festival, set up our campground and hung out for a while.
The concert was amazing! They were mostly "western" instruments if you know what I mean. You don't need to understand the words if you hear the music. This was truly a reminder that music is universal and truly is the one thing that reaches all people. I really, really enjoyed it and it was the best way to spend my last night in Kaohsiung. I really enjoyed spending time with my new friends!
As we were driving away, the two new friends I made wanted to make a stop and they wouldn't tell me why. Shin I told me they had to go "buy something for someone", so I didn't ask questions. They came back, and presented me with a Taiwan flag. I actually started to cry. The kindness of the people here is unmatched. I was their "American", but they will always be my "Taiwan friends". We laughed, and laughed and though their english wasn't too good, language does not stop friendship.
This morning, I said goodbye to Shin I, and that was not without a lot of tears and crying. She had gotten me some of my favorite candy and wrote a note that literally made me dissipate into tears. With Shin I, I not only gained a friend but I gained a sister. Someone who I will love, laugh with, and treasure forever, no matter where in the world we are.
Today, I will have one last lunch with Neon, and then stop by my friend Lucy's house, and then get on the HSR back to Taoyuan to catch an early morning flight back to the states. I will stop in Tokyo, and then head to Dulles. I'll be back Monday afternoon, EST.
Now here comes the really sappy part.
So, 15 days ago, I got on a plane to Taiwan and I had no clue what to expect. I didn't know what was ahead of me. I didn't know, really much of anything. I just got on with an open heart and mind.
I got so much more than I ever could have dreamed.
The school inspired me to be more of an artist. My new friends challenged me, laughed with me, and made me feel more than welcome. To think this is goodbye makes me really sad. So, truth is, this is not goodbye. This is definitely a see you later situation.
I'll be back to this country some day. It was an incredible blessing to take class here, to experience art here, to make friends here, and to live here. I am leaving Taiwan feeling incredibly fulfilled both artistically and personally. This is an experience I will never forget, and will cherish for the rest of my life.
So, Thank you Taiwan. Thank you to everyone I encountered. Thank you to both SU and Shu Te for allowing this to happen. I am forever grateful.
America, lets begin the 48 hour trek back home!
Pictures...
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