a short reflection on life in spain
I took a solo trip to Spain in the first two weeks of December, and went to Barcelona and Madrid. I arrived back home two Mondays ago.
I've made some friends with the locals, and truly, Spain was a reminder of what's really important in life. Building wealth, retirement, and your education? Yes. Very important. But! It is meaningless without friends, family, or community to enjoy life with.
Beer and tapas til 1am with friends is something that is now dear to my heart. I've really been a "stay home and don't leave after 7p" type of person until now.
I see more crow's feet in Barcelona and Madrid than I ever did in my home city, amongst people that are in my age group (mid/late 20s). This is a good thing. This means people smile a lot. Might be a hot take but when I see people trying to remove them, it makes me a little sad... it's physical proof that you're a joyful person (or at least look like it).
I intend to return to the country to enjoy its culture once again. Maybe I'll cook my new friends Korean food as thank you?