Living Abroad: A Journey Through Germany and England
Living in a foreign country has opened my eyes to things I would never have experienced had I stayed in the confines of the States, and has torn down several assumptions I was brought up to accept. It has fundamentally changed how I see the world—and myself—for the rest of my life.
Germany
I learned to appreciate structure and efficiency (though I developed a newfound intolerance for bureaucracy), but also discovered how to look beyond first impressions to build lasting relationships in a culture where personal connections can take time to form.
Britain
In the UK, I found a more social atmosphere, but also experienced the high cost of living and truly horrid weather (I suggest you avoid planning outdoor activities too far in advance). They say England and the U.S. are two countries divided by a common language—the truth is, this shared language can lead to plenty of misunderstandings if you’re not careful, and there are many nuances and plays on words when it comes to British English.
A Shift in Perspective
I’ve become proud of things I didn’t appreciate before—like how adaptable I’ve become—but I’ve also found myself distancing from things I once took pride in back home. News now means global events to me, not just local happenings. My worldview has expanded beyond borders, making it difficult to relate to those who haven’t had similar experiences.
The Challenge of Returning Home
If I ever move back to the U.S., I believe I won’t exactly “fit” anymore. After decades abroad, it’s hard to imagine returning to a place where my perspective no longer aligns with those around me. This feeling is often described as reverse culture shock—the realization that home no longer feels like home because you’ve changed so much.
Through all these experiences, one thing remains clear: no country is perfect, and freedom can vary depending on where you are. But what unites us all—no matter where we call home—is our shared desire for safety, good food on the table, and spending quality time with friends and loved ones. These universal priorities truly matter, no matter where my journey takes me next.