If you’ve been a loyal reader, you probably know I went to see my family back in India after a YEAR and took a break from writing for Odyssey. I apologize if you missed my sarcasm and/or super emotional heart pouring in the past month!

Good things, bad things?

Well, good thing was that I got to see my parents after so long. I got to celebrate my 21^st birthday with my grandparents, parents and all my relatives. I felt protected, cared for and most importantly, happy.

Bad thing was that I had only 3 weeks to soak in every bit of that happiness. A friend asked me today when I would see my parents and family next, and frankly, I had no answer. As an international student, most times, you won’t have one. Even in those 3 weeks, I was traveling all around the country, and hardly got to sleep on my bed.

I miss home. I miss the windows, the view, the pampering I received from my adorable grandparents, the colorful walls, my doggies, my mom’s caress and my dad’s hugs. I miss all of that and yet, I think over time, the goodbyes have become easier.

I can actually hug them at the airport, tear apart and pull myself together now. And, even though it tears them apart too, I know my family is now used to the idea of me having “left home”. The normal has changed from having me around all the time to seeing me once or twice a year.

Yeah, it hurts you to think about it. It is hurting me as I’m writing it but I know that it’s true. We actually adapt over time. Darwin’s theory still applies. Those who adapt, survive. And, we’re all survivors.

The trip was amazing. My best friend from the states visited me and I got to see my own country with a pair of American eyes and it brought into perspective many things that I’d not imagined before. I’m sure it was the same for him. I got to eat a lot of different foods as we travelled across 5 states. We had the opportunity to teach some extremely bright kids Math and English. We also had the opportunity to laze on the beaches of the western coast and drink at 10 am in the morning. It all fell into place like it should have.

I think in the last two years, I have learnt to live in the moment. I knew I had three weeks to enjoy with my parents, I knew I had 15 days to enjoy with my best friend since he leaves to go to London for year and I was able to make the most of it. I do not have regrets. I do not wish anything had been different. I made use of the time that I had and I know I now have the ability to maximize happiness in every situation, however little time I may have.

That is the ultimate goal and purpose anyway. I created so many memories with so many people in those 3 weeks that I will be able to smile over them for another year. And, I know I’ll survive because, over time, goodbyes get easier. And you, Adapt!