A Year's Perspective

Three hundred and sixty-five. To some it can seem like an eternity and to others a simple passing. As I have gotten older, the human construct of time has always intrigued me. If you were to ask me what I had for lunch last week, I wouldn’t be able to tell you for the life of me, but if you were to ask me what I was doing a year ago today, my whole face would light up with a big smile and I would say I was on my way to Sienna for the day!

Last summer I had the opportunity to study abroad through my university and travel throughout Europe for twenty-eight days studying architecture and design. By this time last year, the trip was nearing its close as we were on day twenty-three, and our eighth day in Italy. I learned so many life lessons during those twenty-eight days abroad; one of which was to simply enjoy the moment. At times, especially as a photographer, I can get so caught up in trying to capture and preserve the moment, that I can forget how fleeting the moment is, and that sometimes it’s better to simply enjoy it, cherish it, find joy in each moment and don't worry so much about what comes after. After all, life is an adventure, not to be taken too seriously, as no one gets out alive any ways. So, take some risks, make memories, eat lots of gelato, and drink lots of wine, and eat pasta when its ninety-three degrees outside. Live life, as you only have this one life to live.

I do miss it. The overwhelming sense of unknown. The sensation of being a stranger in unknown lands. There’s a poetic beauty in this madness, one where you can recreate yourself in a new country. If you ever have the opportunity to study abroad I would highly recommend it. It changes you. You’ll never be able to understand it if you haven’t done it, and if you’ve done it, you’ll never be able to explain it. And if you go abroad, travel domestically. There’s so much to see, learn and experience, the important thing is to just do it. Travel near and fear wherever you can. It’s been almost two months since my last road trip. I think it’s time for another adventure.