Brittany Mettrick is a student at The College of Saint Rose and an ISA Featured Blogger. She studied abroad with ISA in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Here I rest in total tranquility, admiring the crashing waves and the soothing ocean breeze. Behind me is a jungle, green as can be, rich with mountains and palm trees. I feel a salty spray on my lips and nose. To me, it is delicious and sweet. I gaze deep into the sea and its powerful, enchanting waves. Looking out into the magnificent Caribbean, I remain in awe. In awe of this huge, amazing world, ultimately all connected by the same waters. In this place I feel tiny, yet overwhelmed with wonder and hope. How exciting it is to imagine the many unique experiences to be had on this magnificent earth.
As a spectator in the sand, I am reminded of the anticipation and excitement that filled me before coming to live here in Colombia. I am reminded of the incredible places and people that I’ve gotten to know during these past five months. I am reminded that, although my time here is coming to a close, a big, beautiful, challenging and exciting world still awaits me. I am reminded that just as the waters constantly turn and change here in Tayrona National Park, that life, too, is constantly changing. Nothing is constant, and nothing is forever. That being said, to live in the moment and take advantage of life’s unique opportunities is of utter importance. My time here in Colombia has taught me this, time and time again.
Cascading mountains, picturesque palm trees, stony sand, and turquoise waves surround me. Grey, blue, and pink shades paint the sky. God is good and the earth is beautiful. I want to cry. I feel so lucky and blessed to be here right now. It pains me to think that I will soon be gone from Colombia, the place that I have come to love so strongly. Here, I have grown and changed. My mind is open wide. I am full of peace and joy. I am open to risks. I am open to love. I thrive in the heat and sun. I have a deeper love for life than I ever have. Thank you, Colombia. Eres inolvidable.
The world awaits…discover it.
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