We are down to 5 days and 2 weeks left in Korea.
I started this blog (5 days and 2 years in Korea) sitting in a hotel room wondering what the future in Korea would hold for our family. I had no idea what I was in for -- how much Seoul would change me as a person.
Our two years quickly turned into three as we discovered what an amazing place Korea is and extended our tour. Now though, I can't even talk about leaving Korea without wanting to burst into tears! I find myself cherishing each moment -- trying to burn every sight and smell into my memory so I won't forget anything.
Don't get me wrong. I am thrilled to move to Hawaii. I go through this every three years when we move. Saying goodbye to friendships, leaving behind homes where our children have grown and memories were created. Here though, in Seoul, I am finding it extra painful. I am leaving behind a country I may never return to. Korean friends I could honestly never see again. I joke with my Korean friends that 한국사람이에요 (I am Korean). While on the outside I may not resemble a Korean in any way, shape or form, I truly feel my heart is half Korean.
So as I leave this country, as I leave this culture and my friends behind, I am grateful for the way our family has been embraced here and welcomed by the beautiful people of Korea. You have touched me and changed me forever. While I may be physically losing my Seoul in 19 days, I am grateful for all of the experiences that have filled my spiritual soul for eternity. 감사합니다! (Thank you!)
I was so, so sad to leave Huntington Beach after I got engaged and made the decision to move here. A wise man (the counselor in my Bishopbric) said to me "That's good you feel so sad. It means you lived while you were here. You experienced and took it all in. What would be the real tragedy is if you weren't sad leaving here because it would mean you didn't make friendships, form relationships, experience the area...." I've always remembered that. What an amazing experience you and your family have had while living there. So great you can leave with all those experiences under your belt and no regrets! And so glad we got to go out there and experience some of Korea with you!
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