All this time I was finding myself And I didn’t know I was lost

I’ve been back in Colorado for a little over 24 hours now. It’s pretty thrilling being home, especially after six months away. However the past 24 hours have also given me the chance to reflect on the past six months, especially on the month I spent wandering around Europe.

In my last post I described the experience of traveling alone as a daunting one, which was punctuated by bouts of loneliness. However this description does not do justice to the experience. Yes traveling alone can be lonely, but that loneliness is fleeting, and will eventually be replaced by new thrilling experiences.

I have wandered through some of the greatest museums in Europe at my own pace, eaten exquisite food, and gotten lost while admiring the architecture of centers of art and culture. Each of these was furthered by the fact that I got to experience them at my own pace and in them my own way. To be able to see masterpieces like the Nefertiti bust, the Mona Lisa, and the Venus de Milo and not have to worry about making sure everyone got to see what they wanted to meant I got to truly admire the works of art. Not having to rush through meals meant that I got truly enjoy my meals, which meant I truly experienced french cooking. By getting lost in these major cities I found sites and museums that were off the beaten path.

Each of these furthered my understanding of my journey, and more importantly of myself. I furthered my dedication to traveling down the path that I am now on. I loved my travels, and while instead I was lonely I was also able to learn more about myself. In many ways I rediscovered who I am and want to be, even though I was unaware that I was in some ways lost.

I am sad to think that my voyage is over, however I am instead choosing to look forward to my next big adventure. I plan to travel the world, I just need to plan for the next one. Many people would look at this experience as dream like, but I am choosing to make it my reality. I don’t know if my future travels will be solo as well, but I look forward to the next one, whether it is on my own, or with others.