Arrivederci and Danke!

Now the time has come. My things are packed and the room is tidy. The only thing missing is my last article here to say goodbye. To tell how this experience here was, whether my expectations were fulfilled, what was good or bad.

That is really not so easy. When I think about my first day, the day I arrived, it seems like it was just a month ago. The excitement, all the unknown. How can it already be half a year ago?
But then I see the many fully written pages in my travel diary and remember. Six months in Italy, in Jesi. Six months with Caritas. Six months of adventure, boredom, joy and sadness. Six months of growing friendships.

Never in my life have I met so many people in a short time, never in my life have I been so much on my own. In Rivestiamo I was able to be creative, master the hustle and bustle in the kitchen together with wonderful people, drowned in clothes at Magazzino and moved furniture. I walked at sunsets and sunrises and when the sun was at its zenith. I climbed mountains, swam in the sea and lake, had aperitivi, lunch and dinner in good company and was able to visit other parts of Italy. I met many great people and a few of them became friends. I have managed to overcome language barriers and feelings of incomprehension, insecurity and loneliness.

During this six month I have grown, broadened my horizons and now stand up straighter. I have learnt a lot about cultural differences and similarities, about social discrimination and I am amazed at the power that some people have to fight against it. These impressions are working in me, have changed me and are changing me, and I am curious to see what fruits it will bear. I couldn't find all the answers to my questions, but my expectations were more than met. The experiences I have had through the ESC are priceless and I am thankful for this privilege we have in Europe.

Saying goodbye now hurts much, but i know, it's not a goodbye forever. I have many good reasons to return: the beauty of the Marche, the good food and wine, but most important my friends. I am grateful.

Arrivederci!

Wohlann denn, Herz, nimm Abschied und gesunde!

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