oday, for the first time in eight months, we say goodbye to Turkey. Even now, as I (Austin) mull that first sentence in my mind, thick nostalgic thoughts and strong, indescribable emotions fill me. Are we actually leaving this wonderfully complex and contradictory land, where an intense, in your face culture blends with a co-existing kindness of spirit to create one of the most unexpectedly beloved countries of our trip thus far? My mind grasps sentimentally, as I replay distant memories: our arrive to Istanbul long ago, backpacking in a narrow canyon near Bursa, couch hopping Izmir for five weeks before finding jobs and an apartment. Teaching English in a shady private school to Turks of all personality and maturity level. Befriending students and fellow teachers alike, and building a deep bond with our now dear friend Burcu as she helped us find another apartment. Adopting weak and wide eyed kittens from the local park after a nasty rainstorm. Hosting a number of friends, old and new, and laughing away our time in the company of our 'soulmates,' Zihya and Esteban. Learning Turkish better than we imagined possible, a language that I will dearly miss practicing with the seemingly random assortment of people that cross our path.
As our plane to Trabzon prepares to land, from which we will take a bus to the exotic and unknown country of Georgia, I rest my mixed emotions in a confident hope: that though we leave Turkey now, perhaps for good, Turkey will never leave us. We will forever carry in our hearts the nuances, colors, and experiences of this wild and untamed land that is Turkiye.
No comments:
Post a Comment