Keep on going

I have been listening to Turkish for the past year. It's not so easy to understand some of these people. Previously, all the Turks I met were from Ankara or Konya which I became accustomed to. It was easier to understand them. Now, however, I've met several Turks from the Black Sea region and their accent is much more difficult to understand. Also, when I am sitting there, no one takes the time to slow down their speech and make sure I can understand - which is totally fine with me. It makes it more difficult for me, but that's how to learn; and when they are speaking Turkish, it's usually in a casual, social atmosphere and there's no reason to make them struggle to speak English when I'm the only native speaker in the room.

This year has been a blur. I was working a lot and dealing with a lot of personal issues. That's what growing up is, right? I don't regret these things happening, they will make me stronger, but it certainly is unpleasant to push through hard times. Of course, resilience comes from pushing on and that's the attitude I've had to have sometimes.

I still haven't returned to Turkey and I'm not sure when I will be able to. I have an itch to travel internationally again. I miss the disconcerting, uncomfortable feeling of being in a place that I don't fully understand and exploring new places. I am ready for a new atmosphere. But, my situation at the moment makes it a difficult thing to do, so I just sit patiently and wait for the right opportunity.

None of this has to do with Turkey...I've discovered two groups in the area (as I said before) that are very helpful. Unfortunately, with my work schedule, it has been rather difficult to attend any of their functions regularly. I try to go to the meetings, which are educational - mostly about Islam, but where I work is open until 10 or later, so it's hard. Then, there is an organization about an hour away that has Turkish courses (mostly for immigrant's children) and also English classes.

This September I received certification to teach English as a Second Language and I would love to use this to support myself in another country. Obviously, I would be most comfortable in Turkey, but I don't know when I will get the courage to leave the US and go out into the great big world again. As I get older, it seems a little scarier. Maybe because when I come back, I don't know what will be here for me and it's a little scary to leave the situation I am in (especially a fairly decent job) and jump. But, at some point, I'm just going to have to take the leap.

Back to Turkey? Teaching English? Traveling the world? Who knows what is next? :) Kendine iyi bak, iyi sansli...

Found - Turkish organization!

Hello All (haha, like there's anyone out there at this point, really...)

I have an update - went to my university and visited my wonderful Turkish friend there. Miss her so much - and Turkey - and Turkish food!

Also, found that there are at least TWO (!!!!!!!!) organizations near my home that focus on Turkish culture and learning the language. I know one group is led by Cemaat members, but at this point, Turkish is Turkish and I miss hearing it. The other focuses more on Islam education, but since it's mostly Turkish members, it still helps.

Now, if only I could find the time to visit...hope to soon (so I can have more to post about!).