It's almost 3am and I can't sleep. As it has happened for the last few days, I find myself wide awake, smiling like a dumbass to no one and nothing in particular. I cruise the halls of this house in hopes that they'll whisper to me, telling me I've done a good job. Which... I know I have. Sixteen months of history back me up on that assumption, so I don't need any other proof.
Yes, it's been sixteen months since I started my journey in the land of Britain. And I've had ups and downs, obstacles and open roads, because hey, apparently that's life. Sometimes I wanted to sing for joy, like when I landed and took a breath of fresh air (yes, yes, you're gonna ask 'WHAT?! Fresh air in London?!' - it was to me! Because it smelt like the much coveted freedom). And then there were those times when I just wanted to crawl under a rock and slowly die, or when I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs that life just isn't fair. But I didn't do any of those things. No. I just took lots of deep breaths, hoping that whatever strength I had left was enough to keep me going towards my goal. My first one, anyway. (don't they say you need to set yourself goals on somewhat short terms, so you can actually achieve them? mhmm.)
And ta daaaaa. I've reached it! First base camp on my Everest mountain. Legally allowed to work in this country (unlike many others!). Legally obligated to pay taxes (such a grown up thing to do, lol). Desperately trying to find a job. Happily moving into my new home. Undescribably excited that I, me, Cristina, have reached this point in life.
It may not seem much to the world, but it means the world to me. Having been used to people doing everything for me, I think I've achieved something really important after these sixteen months: independence. And I'm not giving it up! Just so you know.
P.S. I couldn't have done it all if it weren't for all the people that supported me, whether it was from here or from a distance. Even the ones that are no longer a part of my life, you've all shaped me and given me something to think about. So, thank you.
I am now ready to turn the page and start scribbling a new chapter of my life...
