Just for today, I will be kind to myself.

Recently, my Just for Today blog series has been inspired by my struggles adapting back to my job that I worked at before moving to the Middle East. Very simply stated, working internationally steeped me in a global mindset that is just not present here in Nova Scotia.

It has been my experience and other expats I’ve spoken to, that most people, when you move home from overseas – just aren’t interested in the fact you have lived overseas.  That you’ve traveled the world and have been exposed to so many people, cultures and varied adventures.

It feels as if I have to stuff my overseas life in a bag, and take it out only when it is welcomed to do so.

This feels so unnatural for me, because I am such an enthusiastic person and have grown, become such a better person for living overseas.

Actions not Words

Therefore, it seems the proof of my overseas exposure and growth has to be in my actions – not my words.

At my current job, I am challenged each day to model my growth. One challenge is having to turn my energy volume way down as part of the behavior management plan of the student I support.  I have to be calm, very calm all day and say very little to allow time for processing.  I have to be completely opposite of my natural way of being.

I’m running out of time to write, as I have to now get ready for work.  This blog is a jumble of thoughts. Thank you for your patience as I use this blog series as a way to accept my here and now yet grieve what I am missing in Qatar.

Just for today, I will be kind to myself.  Gentle.

S, ❤️