From Familiar Faces to Foreign Places: Reflecting on September’s Journey
September was a month of reflection, reconnection, and a renewed appreciation for change. The first week was spent at home, which brought a sense of nostalgia, joy, and comfort as I reunited with friends and family after months apart. It was deeply fulfilling to reconnect, yet emotionally challenging as I balanced these reunions with the demands of preparing for an exam. I returned to work feeling exhausted but grateful for the chance to immerse myself briefly in the familiar.
Later in September, I traveled to Cadiz for an Erasmus project, and this experience reignited my passion for being part of Erasmus initiatives. There’s something about these projects—immersing oneself in new learning environments, collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds, and exploring unfamiliar places—that brings so much energy and inspiration. Cadiz itself left a lasting impression on me; the elegance of the city hall, the charm of the traditional Andalusian patios, and the beauty of the narrow streets all made me feel as if I were stepping back in time. The city’s vibrant culture, sunlit plazas, and coastal views were captivating. I felt at home in Cadiz’s lively, welcoming atmosphere, which reminded me of the richness that each new place offers. Yet even with these experiences, I found myself in a unique in-between: September felt like a month I could have taken off, a time to pause and savor the experiences more than to work.
Amidst this, the upcoming departure of another volunteer in my organization reminded me of my own approaching end date. Knowing that my contract concludes in early November, I began to feel the bittersweet weight of time passing. My co-volunteer’s departure brought a sense of sadness but also an opportunity for reflection—reminding me of all we had shared, the memories we created, and the rapid pace of the year. The process of reminiscing and preparing to say goodbye has left me with a profound gratitude for the connections and moments of growth we’ve experienced together.
Shifting between familiar and new environments throughout September has brought both a sense of nostalgia and a fresh perspective. I realized how much I love the constant changes that come with this lifestyle—meeting new people, exploring unfamiliar places, and embracing the unknown. Each shift reinvigorated me and reinforced the idea that change itself is a source of energy. As I prepare to conclude my journey here, I carry forward these memories, reflections, and lessons, knowing they will shape both my present and future experiences.
This September offered me both a look back and a glance forward, leaving me with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude for this incredible journey.
