Transplanted

So this site is for people who have left the comfort of their longtime (sometimes lifetime) communities for new opportunities elsewhere. I suppose my story is a little interesting because I had only lived in one state since the age of 12–add a couple decades and you know why this has been an adjustment. But, I was surprised by how “easy” the first few months were in Atlanta. Sure I was a little freaked out, but all in all, I was patient with the change and thrilled by new experiences. Now that we’re nearing the one-year mark I’m sort of thinking I should be over it by now, but I’m not.

My Mom came for a visit last week and it was great to have her here, but I figured that when she left I’d happily go about trying to find some freelance work and a new place to live. Instead I find myself thinking about all the people I know who are so, so SO far away. And then I thought “are they?”

A friend called from Salt Lake and it made me tear up. But you know I didn’t see that person in Salt Lake more than once a year. In fact, isn’t it true that most of us are so busy with our lives that seeing friends “regularly” means once every couple of months–unless you work with them or live close by? Even my Mom and I would often go weeks without seeing each other. So what is it about putting 2,000 miles in between these people that should make a difference? I decided it was time for a reality check. 

Utah distance reminder:

By Plane: 4 hours

By Car: 3 days

By bicycle: A few months

Conclusion: Utah isn’t the moon, although on your first visit from some place like New York it just might feel like it, and Atlanta isn’t a galaxy far, far away.