Two Years

I've become a lot more cautious.

Two years ago, if someone asked me where I live, I would have told them the exact location without hesitation. Living at home gave me an impenetrable sense of safety and security; I could not be touched when I was surrounded by a protective network of friends and family. Now that I live alone in Korea, I value my privacy a lot more, and put my safety first. I've learned to answer questions about where I live with a vague "Oh, around here...". I no longer have a problem saying "no" to strangers, or standing up for myself. It's all about self-preservation.

I've learned that diplomacy comes before ego.

This is my first full-time job working with co-workers who are above me in the social hierarchy in every conceivable way. I have to remind myself to be diplomatic at all times. You're under contract. If you argue or look pissed off, it'll be awkward for everybody afterwards. Don't roll your eyes, don't let your annoyance show, don't give attitude. I'm not in control all the time yet, but I'm definitely learning how to behave like a grown-up in the workplace.

I really love being around children; I never knew that about myself.

I'm not going to run off and start having babies, mind you. But they bring an inexpressible, bubble of  happiness with them wherever they go. My students remind me everyday how fun it is to be excited for lunchtime, to laugh loudly at a funny picture, and to win at races and games.

I've become less spoiled and materialistic, and that goes together with learning to be more grateful.

Twelve years ago, my mom took me to Disneyland Sea in Tokyo, Japan, and I sulked for the whole day, because she got me the wrong ice-cream flavor. I used to be the master of passive aggressiveness, and I still hate myself for it. Going on vacation used to mean shopping and acquiring materialistic possessions in different cities, so that I could return home and be complimented by friends on my new stuff.

Going on vacation now means planning itineraries and being excited at the prospect of vacation. It means being accommodating and working together with travel buddies. It means doing things and collecting experiences rather than shopping and accumulating things. Now, I would rather go for a walk or hike with friends instead of spending the day at the mall, looking at bags and getting manicures. Good coffee, good company, and great conversation - these are all things that I would have considered a total waste of time when I was younger - but now, they are my fondest memories.