Taking Off
If there is one thing I have learned in college, I’ve learned how very little I know. Higher education is incredibly humbling. It has managed to strip me of that blissful childhood ignorance, while showing me the vastness of knowledge and how much I have left to learn. It has sent me through internal struggles, not only about “what I want to be when I grow up” but more importantly “who” I want to be.
Three years at Madison quickly burst the “Brookfield Bubble” in which I was peacefully confined for so long. It has fueled my desire to venture out and learn about the world and myself first-hand. And what better place to continue my education then Sydney, Australia- the land of “no worries.” Maybe a thick Fosters and the Carpe Diem attitude of the Aussies is just what a self-proclaimed worry wart needs to lighten up a bit;)
Along with my worrisome nature, I have learned many other things about myself. I can have a hard time letting loose. I am often too intense. I tend to shy away from life’s toughest challenges. I put needless pressure on myself. I’m scared of failure. I take life too seriously.
And out of all the humbling things I’ve realized, these are the most valuable, because they are what I hope to change. Change, but not erase…for although these flaws are unbecoming, they will always be a part of who I am. But hopefully, after 5 months in Australia, a very small part;)
I am incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity, and I intend to make the most of every last minute. It will challenge me in ways I cannot fathom; but then again, life’s toughest challenges often hold the greatest rewards. For as a good friend told me: You only get one shot at life, so you might as well make the most of it the first time around;) And thats exactly what I am going to do.
Tags: Still in the States
Traedogg
July 18th, 2005 at 9:11 am
You go girl! I love you, Babe.
July 18th, 2005 at 5:27 pm
Ok Traci,
I know you aren’t even in Australia yet, but I just stumbled across something that I had to tell you. There are five wagamama restaurants in Sydney. It is a japanese noodle chain that I fell in love with in London. I would even go just for their apple/orange juice. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever had (not joking).
Alright, well I just got super excited and felt it was my duty to share with you.
Talk to you soon! Hope your trip there went well!!!!!
Taaaa
July 18th, 2005 at 8:36 pm
traccccccccccccccciiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii….
i miss you already and you only left today 🙁 i’m not sure i’m ready for a traci-less semester.. but we’ll give it a try and see how it goes… i hope your flight went magnificently.. and that your roommate ends up being a chip n dale… 😉 i luv uuuuuuu! keeeeeeeeses!!
July 20th, 2005 at 1:52 am
We are glad to here you survived your first shocking experience in Aussie Land. There will likely be more, hopefully with better results. We are thrilled that you have landed safely and found your new home. We look forward to hearing more when you get settled in. Get some rest and good luck with all your orientations to Sydney.
Luv Ya!
Daddio & Mombo & T
July 20th, 2005 at 9:33 am
Hi Traci
Can’t believe that you are there and “off and running” already! What an adventure! I love all of your updates and look at them religiously. It’s the next best thing to being there with you. You know that we are there in spirit every minute. Glad all of your flights went well. More soon.
Love always, Grandma
July 22nd, 2005 at 10:57 pm
Good on ya Traci! Your unflinching hope for a fresh start is so inspiring…and better yet, a great reminder that we cannot settle for the mediocrity of routine. Great things are in store for you. You’ll walk away with new hobbies, goals, plans, and best yet – an attitude that is sure to change the way you view anything and everything. the best to you!