From the rush of nerves to my stomach
and “you’re following your dream.”
From the mounds of paperwork,
and final goodbye to the grocery clerk.
I am from a close knit town in the Midwest.

From a letter of acceptance
and the exploding excitement.
From packing a year’s worth of clothes
and receiving my ticket.
I am from a plane ride to my new culture.

From my first step in a foreign place
and my first horrible “bonjour.”
From my first train ride through the countryside
and the taste of Aurillac.
I am from a small town in France.

From my last perfectly toasted croissant
and my last broken “au revoir”
From my last hug with the people I loved
and the many tears shared.
I am from the girl who followed her dream.