When you think of the
typical American Dream… what comes to mind? Some of you may often think about
graduating college, maybe continuing education with a Master’s degree, getting
married, having a pet, buying a house, babies, and having a steady job from 9-5. In ways, all
of that stated is sometimes what we view as “success.” We live in a society
that values a strong working ethic. We may have time for fun activities on the
weekends, during the summer, once or twice a year… but more often than not,
many people push their dreams of travel, seeing the world, getting away from it
all… and tack it onto retirement.
By teaching and living
abroad, my whole world view of “success” has started to change. I won’t lie,
there have been MANY days where I wish I was teaching in an American classroom,
living in an American style house, and surrounded by American culture. I wish I
was “comfortable.” Sometimes I catch myself looking at pictures of family and
friends’ lives (through social media) and want the life they are living. In a
way, I feel that my “real life” has not started. I feel like I am living in a
fantasy world. My job is fun, relatively easy, my rent is free, I take trips
with my husband every weekend, and we've been to over 10 countries together
since we've been married… (August 2011) and I think my life hasn't STARTED
yet?? Just because it doesn't fit into the typical American Dream?
So… with all that
being said, I am trying to redefine what MY American Dream really is. First, it’s
not comparing my life to anyone else’s.
Rather, it’s a life full of experiences; chances to share your love,
kindness, inspirations, smile, and adventure with those around you; really,
just loving people and loving them fully. I absolutely love learning new things from
people around the world. I love experiencing new culture, because I truly
believe it’s making me a better person who sees the world and all the colors it
offers and gives.
I am reaching my late
20’s (dare I say, 30!) and I figure now is the best time to change my thinking of
success all together. If you would've asked me 10 years ago where I think I’d
be now… I would probably say married, kids, house, dog, teaching…etc. Typical Typical – and there’s nothing wrong
with that! But, I’m slowly realizing that’s not the life God has intended for
me.
I want to focus my
life on working to live rather than living to work.
I must admit… My husband
and I have been bit by the travel bug and our adventure is far from over. The
world is a big place and there are so many places we want to explore. This life
in South Korea has been the best thing that’s happened to us. And Guess what? Kids will come, career will come, and time
will pass. For now, it is time for adventure. It’s time to fully embrace escaping
the comfort zone that few experience with exploring the unknown.
For me, my new “American Dream” starts today.
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| My husband and I on one of our many adventures. |
