Chasing the Sun

…an odd phenomenon I have encountered is a day without night.  Flying in an airplane West into the sun at 600 miles per hour causes a strange phenomenon to happen.  You will avoid night by figuratively…yet usuably literally term..chasing the sun.  For this reason now I can say that I am positively exhaused, my brain shocked from the tension of not resting. 

..today was an interesting day.. and every moment in Korea I am learning something about myself as well as Koreans.  For lunch, me and a couple Korean friends went out to a little shop in Shinchon called the Strawberry…i forgot.  The food was so delicious.  I had Oo Jing Oe Bok em, while they feasted on other delicious foods.  Afterwards, I registered for the Gym membership that will come into affect on the 3rd of March..costing 80000 won.  Running back and forth to establish accounts and meet deadlines..i started to feel the strain of what it is to truly be independent and self-sufficent.  Yet, the most enjoyable part of my day started only after dinner tonight.  Walking with a group of my new Korean friends in the beautiful city light of night-time Seoul, whilst engaging in meaningful conversations with people from around the world on subjects offered from unique perspectives, I had a sense of why I was indeed here in Seoul, thousands of miles away from my friends, loved ones, and family. 

Earlier in the day, I attended an orientation that talked about Yonsei and the university, as well as differing programs that aim at including international students into the university life.  I decided to apply for all 3 clubs, as well as a Christian fellowship that will hold meetings on Tuesdays.  I have met many people from all around the world, from the Netherlands, Germany, Japan, Europe, France…there is just so much of a mix in Seoul that I am constantly amazed.  The hospitality I have been shown is also amazing, and I see why Korea is such an amazing country.  However, life is what is made of it, and I try to be as open and understanding as possible.  Shopping in the grocery stores, and looking for food will be a constant hassle for me, as well as avoiding sellers who constantly nag you for over-priced goods. 

Nevertheless, my top priority now is to get a cell phone to communicate consistently with my loved ones home and stay in touch with my new friends.  I definetely see a lot of signs of shallowness in the Korean culture, but I see an inner beauty that I have yet to clearly categorize. 

I wish you were here with me to share these beautiful moments nae epoun sae.  Please watch over my mom. 

I am so exhausted..i will check a few things and head to sleep.  I am more than ready. .  . see yo soon. 

Until next time…Goodnight.