Saying yes allowed me to experience parts of the culture in a different way than if I had just read a book or gone to a museum, and it allowed me to create my own connections to the country and memories.
I also want to be clear that the say "yes" rule always applies to food! Food is incredibly important in México, and being invited to share in and prepare food with my friends and their families has allowed me to learn a lot about the country and its history as well as to have the opportunity to be a part of someone else’s family when I am far away from mine.
Last, integrating myself with the weather in Chetumal is a more scientific process that I hope will come with time and a lot of cold showers! While there are still moments where I find it hard to be so far away from home, I like to remind myself that although I am a long way from where I grew up, there is potential to find a new home where I feel comfortable. After all, I have changed a lot since I was a little kid, and I should allow my surroundings to do the same. By getting excited about new experiences in México, being open to changing my plans and trying new things, and by allowing myself to be confused and ask questions, I have gotten to know this beautiful country on a deeper level, and hopefully there is more to come!
