Days til take-off: 15

I love that I am spending one of my last weeks in the US in Newport Beach. I have had a love affair with the Pacific Ocean since I was 8 years old and saw her for the first time. Before seeing the ocean, I would dream of it. In fact, I had a teacher who would have us meditate in class and imagine ourselves at our "happy place." I would imagine this place, a cool ocean breeze with magical coves and critters in the sand. I could see myself walking along the water, my long blond hair flowing in the wind like Ariel from the Little Mermaid. Imaginary Maria would sing and twirl in the ocean breeze. I feel connected here. I feel home.
I am currently reading "River Town" by Peter Hessler, which is a great preface to leaving for China. I am learning about cultural differences, the Great Leap Forward, and the Cultural Revolution. It is interesting to learn how I will be seen there, what may be inappropriate to say or wear. I began to fantasize about myself fitting right in with the rest of them, but quickly realized that wouldn't be authentic for me. I am proud to have my roots be American, whatever that means. I decided to give myself permission to be myself, and allow others whatever experience of me that they have. I've found that the more authentic I am, the more others feel safe to be authentic too.