The Journey Begins

What happens when one is uprooted from their lifelong home and moves abroad for a couple of years? Will the time away be exciting and refreshing? Maybe. Maybe not. I fear I might not be able to experience these adventures to the fullest if my vision is blurred by the grief of leaving family and friends. I am beginning to navigate this new journey and trying not to look at my new life through broken glasses. These blog posts will document this journey and give me an outlet to express myself and share my experiences with those back home. 

I discovered the news about moving to Bangladesh in December 2024 – the middle of the school year. Attempting to push it from my mind, I busied myself with schoolwork and focused on having fun with my friends. I am continuing to deal with the separation anxiety of leaving my friends. They are more like family to me, supporting me when I am going through something difficult. They help me control my emotions when I feel I am about to burst.

I’m sure I will continue to miss my family and friends back home, but the ability to communicate with them over text brings relief from the stress of moving.

Seeing how the thought of leaving my friends distressed me, my parents organized a farewell sleepover with my friends. That sleepover will forever be one of my happiest memories. Everyone was lively and playful, giving me a feeling of complete and raw happiness. When it’s time to leave my home, I cling to the hope that we will stay connected throughout my journey. 

I hope you enjoy reading about my adventure overseas.

– M.E. Stewart