Free.

There are tons of things I can say about my 3 weeks in another country carrying my luggage between places.

I can tell you about a nice old gentleman who wholeheartedly gave me extra detailed instruction when asked "Which gate must I choose to get to Saint-Dominique?". He asked for a map then wrote several symbols on it so that I could find my way easily.

I can tell you about a beautiful girl who struck a conversation with me during break between the tests this afternoon. I was the sole Asian there and I saw many colors, many shining colors that I actually thought I would make my way home afterwards without saying much to everyone.

I can tell you about an old lady who thanked me invariably when I offered her my seat on Metro. Even when she was about to get off, she did not forget to give me a dazzling smile: "Thank you. You are very nice"

I can tell about the squirrels here, which are so awkwardly curious. And I think I am the only one who would squat down near the meadow to take pictures of them while making these mice-intimating noises.

I can tell you about the family of raccoons I saw up on top of the mountain whose view directs to the firework shot on the other side of the island.

I can tell you about heaps of nice things that have happened to me since I left my hometown, and as far as the truth goes, the nicest thing is that I am now living alone, by myself, up on this 5th floor in a small room shared with another girl. I won't be waken up at night by noise of any quarrels nor going out to find my father for my mother. I am free, you see? The burden is temporarily off. I get to live my life without any guilt for doing what I like or being obliged to take responsibilty to things that are not my fault.


I am free, at least for now. This air is so fresh and this sky has been the bluest I have ever seen.