Turkey

This post is uncharacteristically sappy. Let me apologize in advance.

I never really thought much of Thanksgiving. I mean, I enjoyed having a couple of days off, spending time with my family, and stuffing myself with, well, stuffing. But I never really gave it any more thought than that. This year, in particular though, I guess I have a lot to be thankful for...

First of all, I’m so thankful to have been born in an era where it’s possible for a 22-year old single woman Miguk like me to be able to pack up and move to the opposite side of the world and take up a job there. I’m thankful for the technology that has made such globalization possible, including the means with which I have managed to (kind of) keep in touch with my family and friends at home. Really, stop right now and think about it. From technology to feminism, when else in history could such an experience have been possible for me!?!

Of course I'm thankful for my wonderful friends here. Zooms, for practically adopting me. My coworkers, My Miami alumni who convinced me to move here in the first place, my 남자친구, etc, etc.

I’m thankful for all the just plain kind Korean people I meet out and about who go out of their way to help out the hopeless Miguk... And remind me incessantly that my exit is only 5… now 4…. now 3…. now 2…. stops away. As much as it annoys me and my sense of independence and autonomy, it really is much appreciated. Korea as a whole has been so welcoming, and I truly am thankful to have had the opportunity to spend time exploring such a wonderful culture.

And most, Most, MOST of all, I’m thankful for my loving family and friends who supported me in my admittedly spontaneous decision to move to the ROK, despite all their well-reasoned and completely valid (especially now!) concerns about me and my well-being. Thank you for forgiving my chronically broken internet and busy schedule to make time for me in your life thousands of miles away!

Lots and lots of love! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

- Christine -

ps. Be thankful for the day off and presence of turkey in your country! I'll be missing such things...