The end. Or is it the beginning?

Today's "theme" was closure. I feel very closed, if that was really the goal of the day. But today's amazing boat ride really did help close an outstanding study abroad experience. It was a little frustrating that the we spent so much time trying to fix the rig, that we could not kayak or go see a waterfall, but being on a boat at all was a huge blessing. I noticed that everyone seemed to get along better, and despite the seasickness, everyone enjoyed the trip. This class was definitely the best I have ever taken. I loved getting to apply classroom knowledge to the real world. Everyone should go on a trip like this. Not only will it bring an understanding of different cultures and promote empathy, it also teaches you so much about yourself. I've learned how I react in situations that I never imagined I would be in. I have learned the feeling of being discriminated against because of the color of my skin and where I was born. I've learned to not put stock in first impressions, because they were all very wrong about these wonderful people I have met and worked with. Most of all, I've learned that I cannot run away from my problems. But, I am strong enough to face them. It's interesting to watch people that grew up in vastly different worlds than you take on challenges that seem so impossible for you to take. I truly feel changed by this trip. Not necessarily in a monumental way, but definitely an internal perspective shift. The world seems smaller now. There are still so many people to meet and learn from. Being afraid of these experiences will not get me anywhere in this world, and I would live a lonely, unfulfilled life it I was. Thanks for the ride, Spain, it's been spectacular.