expatriation

I cried tonight.  Even though I said I wouldn't.

I cried at the base of the Acropolis, staring at the Parthenon as it glowed against the night sky.  I cried as I said goodbye to Amelia in Syntagma.  And I cried as I sat on Owen's couch on Mitropoleous.  I almost cried in McDonalds, as we were getting a midnight happy meal snack.  And I cried again as I wrote a last email home to the parentals.

I'm leaving.

In 9 hours I'll be on a plane to the States.

And I have this sinking feeling that I will never see this place again.  As much as I feel tied here-like my life is supposed to play out on these city streets-I have a feeling, in the pit of my stomach, that I won't ever make it back to Greece.

Last year, when I had no prospects of ever returning, I felt fine leaving.  I mourned the loss of my friends more than the absence of the city.  This year, however, the bond I forged was with Athens. 

And I cannot bear the thought that I won't be here anymore.

As much as I miss my friends and family at home, I could contentedly spend my life here.  With a job, an apartment, a life, I could be happy-happier than I see myself in any city at home. 

I don't feel like an American anymore...I feel Greek.  And that is what I want to be.

~RLM 

Comments

[Sonia Bonia! :)]

SHUT UP! We are going to Greece on May 13th! You're going back! I will not have a anyone else as my tour guide!

[Melody]

Ohhhhh the drama! LOL! <giggle> <hug>

I have felt that way when I leave FL. I always cry the day we leave and feel like I'll never get back.

Of course, it's been ten years now so I'm starting to think that again but.... LOL!

Love you!
MSB