Long-distance friendships

On this trip i've been able to re-connect with so many wonderful people. It's an unavoidable consequence of the lifestyle i've chosen in the last few years that i cannot be geographically close to all of the people that i would like to be. This has never been more true than in Brazil, due to both the distance and the relatively high travel costs. Yet here there is an interesting paradox - it's because of my choices that i have been able to meet so many inspiring, supportive and intelligent people in so many diverse places.

In many ways i sense this is easier for my 'AIESEC friends' than my school/uni friends, since they are much more used to this arrangement in their own lives. At the same time, i still feel that the latter remain incredibly supportive and understanding of my choices. And overall it's been really lovely to feel that, with so many of my friendships, the connection is not weakened by distance and the passing of time.

I remember that when i was preparing to leave for university, my Dad told me that i should not expect to be able to maintain many of my friendships, as my friends and i grew up, made different choices, and moved in different directions. I'm so happy that i (or, we) have managed to prove his prediction wrong =)

To my friends everywhere, thanks for always being 'there' =)

Proud to be an AIESECer

I'm coming to the end of my 6th AIESEC International Congress, this time in Malaysia. More than 600 people from 107 countries have come together for 10 days to learn, to share, to challenge, and to be inspired. It still feels incredible to be in a room with such diversity, such energy, such creativity, and such passion. It gives me great satisfaction to see that the organization is growing faster than at any point since i joined it 9 years ago. Finally AIESEC has succeeded in sharing this great event with the world through online media. Events such as this remind me of the power of trusting in the potential of young people (including myself)!

Congratulations to AIESEC, and thank you for all that you have given to my life.

A very proud alumnus =)

Back in the City of Angels

feels great to be back. Feels like coming home. Seems i have several homes now =) The colours, the smiles, the food, the beautiful scenery - all just as i remember. And once again with very special friends, who make this place even more magical. And once again, we picked up just where we left off, as if all the months had not passed with so many miles in between us.

Leaving again in 30hrs. But it's ok - i know i'll be back again =) Good night, Bangkok xxx

Finally - the proof!

Feeling alive

The glorious tingle of Indian food lingering in my mouth, the chorus of tuk-tuks ringing in my ears.
My chest still sensing the intense heat of the rush-hour train ride.
My mind's eye a sprawling collage of radiant sarees, friendly smiles and skeletal animals.
The satisfaction of a successful meeting completed, and of watching how quickly a new colleague grows into her role.
The warm embrace of friendship tying me to those recently left behind, and to those expectantly waiting.
The love in my heart nourished and refreshed by hearing the sound of your voice.
The present, the past and the future coexisting peacefully in my mind.