Stepping off the plane, I saw the sign that lead to customs and arrival. It read "Loi Ra" (Exit). It was a sad little private smile. This isn't the easiest of work trips. Yes, it requires a little more attention than the usual, but it's somewhat tough for me to rein in my emotions. I didn't think I'd feel emotional, but I do. Not the hysterics, but rather the sort where it tugs heavily at the heartstrings.
This work trip is particularly poignant. My first trip with the department was to Hanoi, and with the then-big boss, and to attend a dinner. It is fitting that one of my last trips with the department also includes the now-big boss, and to a continuation of the theme of this dinner in the city where it all began.
One thing has remained constant- My command of Vietnamese is still crap. I knew five sentences then and about 10 sentences now. Not much of an improvement, one would say. I was so green then, with long flouncy hair that didn't quite fit. A little wiser now and almost ready to take on the world, I sport a short bob which conveys confidence. All that I've experienced through the years have shaped me in so many positive ways and kept me grounded. It has been a really wonderful period on the job.
2 comments:
*HUGS* You'll get through this. Perhaps, who knows, Hanoi could still feature in future, in a different context?
jomel: hahha. not that fond of Hanoi. just a little nostalgic at its connotations to my job, that's all!
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