Alone, but not on my own
A letter to my special person, who has always been by my side, not only during the time I spent in the Czech Republic.
Dear Mom,
I know you didn’t expect me to write a letter to you. But I feel like I have to. I realised that you were the one, who helped the most. No matter what happened you were always there for me. You are very special to me because of your morals and for all you have done for me in my life. It’s your excellence that I am who I am right now, because you have had an influence on my personality.
In my view a mother always has impression on her daughter. It’s essential to be there for her all the time. She is her own flesh and blood and you need to be by her side, no matter how hot-headed, insecure or grumpy she is. A good mother-daughter relationship is based on reliance. In my case, I’m lucky to have you because I completely trust you. I can discuss anything with you, you always listen to me and you’re aware of the fact that you have a claim on me, but it doesn’t prompt you to force your opinion on me. Since I was born, both you and dad have always wanted the best for me.
As my parent, you’re worried about me, but you can be sure that I’m mature enough to know the limits and how to handle difficult situations. I believe you wanted me to be an exchange student, because it was a non-recurring possibility to explore the world, to learn and have fun at the same time, plus I could actually improve my language skills. You’ve always taught me to be the real me and have my own opinion.
By the time the program ended, you wished to have back a more open-minded young lady. According to me the change is obvious. Thanks to your view I became more self-confident, outgoing and independent.
As I know you have always wanted to travel the world and discover different cultures, habits and lifestyles. Maybe it’s crazy, but sometimes it comes to my mind, that you would like your dreams come true, and since you didn’t have opportunities for that, you, as a true daydreamer want your firstborn child to eventuate your ancient desire. Just like in the movies. I’m not sure that it’s true or not, but I’m willing to bring it to fruition, because I want my footprint to go on record in every continent.
My life as an exchange student started in 2014. When I heard that my school is in connection with Erasmus+ program you encouraged me to apply to participate in it. We talked over this topic and you highlighted the fact, that as a young lady I must become a dependable, determined and broad-minded woman in the future. You were right, of course.
Travelling alone, but not on my own is a really great beginning to see how I can solve my problems, when there’s no one to hold my hand. You told me: ’Do you know what’s even scarier than being alone or failing? Knowing that you will never succeed if you don’t put something up at risk.’ My risk was to set off on this journey. Listening to your advice was one of my best ideas ever. I could never express how grateful I am to you.
In the morning of departure we went to the train station together, I knew that I will miss you, but I was also aware of the fact that I need this adventure to be the person, who I want to be. We kept in touch in the bigger part of the time, but you gave me enough space to get along without any outside help. I would say your plan was successful, because it turned out that I’m more mature and independent than everybody thought. But of course I could always rely on my host families even though we didn’t spend that much time together.
During the time I spent abroad you came to my mind many times, but you already know it from my phone calls. Walking on the streets of Prague I was wondering that we should live these adventures together too and give a chance to your dreams come true.
Thank you for being a shining example in my life. You taught me many important lessons that will help me throughout my entire life ahead. Now I know as we grow older, we find someone to look up to. Someone to admire. A special person. My special person, who I love and admire most, is you.
Love,
Kata