A Few Lessons about that thing we call LIFE

One of my goals for coming on this trip I have to admit were a little selfish. Don't get me wrong- the major goal was to help people in need and do a good service (of course)- but really I wanted to grow and learn and do a good service within myself. Is that such a bad outlook to have?

I was eating brunch by myself the other day, enjoying a nice, smooth, cheap cafe latte, when my mind started wandering. I thought I might share a few lessons I realized while I was contemplating life and writing in my journal. The following may place me in a little area of vulnerability, but hey- I am feeling compelled to share. So, here they are:

1) LIVE SIMPLY and aim to be a little less selfish (note above opening paragraph)- I am the first to admit that I have a tendency to be selfish. Sometimes I am quick to speak, without thinking, and it offends people I love. Sometimes I put myself way before others I care about. Every once in a while, I choose to do something that benefits no one but myself. I think everyone does these things from time to time. And you may have your own personal interpretations of how you are 'selfish'. Some, depending on their background, may feel selfishness is one key to survival. I aim to be more self-less, one key adjective that perfectly describes my mother. I am not necessarily talking about material things, that is not my business. I am talking about small acts of kindness, big gestures of compassion and an overall sense of living for others. That is my big life changing realization. And I know it will take some work, but I really believe I can do it. It is a tough balance, I think- to be self-less without taking good care of yourself, but with a little soul searching, deep thinking, and focused acting, anyone can be sure to accomplish.

2) A wise, famous Tibetan Monk once said that the purpose of life was to achieve happiness. I couldn't agree more. Do what makes you happy and make that your priority, mixing in compassion for others in there. What makes me happy is making a child laugh, even if I have to tickle them to do so. I am happy when I feel myself making a difference, even if its a small, untangible one. I am happy to know I make other people happy. When I feel I have completed more than my to-do list, I feel accomplished and therefore a sense of happiness. Traveling the world and exploring people and places makes me happy. There is a long list that brings me happiness, and I think one important facet of life is discovering that. What REALLY makes you happy? I have uncovered some things that I never thought about makes me happy- we can discuss over a cup of coffee one day.

3)While in Nepal, I learned a different sense of the word FAMILY. You will always hear me say how lucky I was to be brought up in such an unconditionally loving family. I never went a day without hugging, kissing or being told I love you from my family members. We were and remain incredibly close. My brother, mother and father are my best friends. Its such a neat connection. But when I came to Nepal I was blown away by my Host family, and their genuine love for me. I couldn't believe how nice they were, how they treated me with respect- even though I was different, and how they relied on eachother and the simplicity of their life to make them happy. I could talk for days about them. When we live in a world that is so quick to judge others based on anything that is different (religion, race, disability, education level, sexuality, political views- to only name a few), it is such a breath of fresh air to see people from across the world living in opposite of this stereotype.

These are just my initial interpretations of my trip. I am sure, as I decompress and really have some time to think, I will realize a little later even more things I have learned. For now, I feel really amazing and accomplished and adjusted to my new sense of self.
Thanks for reading.
Love,
J