Bogota | "the Local"

One of my biggest fears starting this program was being overwhelmed by a hoard of new faces and people trying to force new friendships. I can safely say that I am glad that I was wrong. 

Meet Ash. He was also my roommate in Mexico City. We requested to live together again for Bogota. I'm glad it worked out this way because I feel immediately comfortable around him. He’s the one saving grace in an otherwise bad day (not that I have many of them, but not every day can be peaches and cream).  Sometimes you meet those people where you know that you will become a better person because of them.

The friendship we share keeps me on an even keel here. Sometimes I have to admit that I'm not always prepared for what this journey has in store and I may not be mature enough to know how to address difficult situations. But Ash is there to patiently listen and offer genuine insight. We are also just two people that do our best to mirror each other's positive energy. I remember one of our first conversations when we moved in together: he warned me that he just pooped in the bathroom. Then there was the time that he brought me sunflowers after working out in the park. On multiple occasions, we’ve broken into song and let loose dancing around the house. Not to discredit any other roommate I’ve had; I’m just saying that in this new life, having someone that will wake up and dance with you happens to be the medicine I need now to bring my spirit back to life.

It’s funny that we’ve come from such similar backgrounds. We are from the same hometown – Andover Massachusetts. Ash went to the high school I transferred out of – Andover High. While he graduated a few years ahead of me, we have a shared experience of King’s subs and the downtown area where we spent our youth doing nothing. Our shared background helped to break the ice, but I feel that our friendship is based on mutual respect of each other and open communication. That's something you don't get off the bat and is usually earned. It's a relief to find that quality so early.  Each day there is an intention to bring some light and goodness into the world. The energy we have radiates to inspire others. In groups, I see that our positivism draws out the positivity in others. It’s refreshing.

 Life is fun again, and I know that I’ve learned a lot about who I am as a direct result of Ash creating the mental space and energy to live freely. This is my moment to acknowledge that and recognize it's impact in other areas of my life.

Basically: Ash, if you’re reading this – thanks for being there. I feel the free things.