Whenever life in Korea gets difficult, I often remind myself of where I’m from and the things I survived. Sure, not being able to find clothes in my size or being teased by the locals isn’t exactly my idea of fun, but it certainly beats staring at an almost empty bank account while trying to decide between having food or putting gas in the car.
I consider myself lucky to have the opportunities I’ve been given here. I know I shouldn’t, but I can’t help but feel guilty that I got those chances and escaped a crappy situation while the people I care about back home are still struggling. Since I moved to Korea, people I love have lost their jobs, homes, spouses, children, and everything in between. The best I’ve been able to do is send back some cash to help, and it kills me that I can’t offer them the same options that I got due to a combination of luck and knowing the right people.
I can only hope that I will someday be successful enough to offer more than good vibes. It’s a goal I’ve always had, and it helps to remind myself of it from time to time.
