Moving from the US to Kosovo was a life-changing decision that I made with my husband after years of dreaming about living abroad. The allure of Eastern Europe’s sense of community and rich culture captivated me, leading me to leave behind my familiar American life and embark on a new adventure. With just three suitcases in hand, I bid farewell to the US and embraced the unknown.
From a young age, I harbored a deep desire to explore the world beyond America’s borders. The idea of strolling through the streets of Paris, navigating a Turkish bazaar, or savoring the flavors of Thai street food filled my imagination. However, the responsibilities of life and the sheer vastness of the world left me unsure of where to begin. It wasn’t until I met my husband, a Kosovo native, that the path became clear.
His culture, with its emphasis on community and family ties, resonated with me deeply. The warmth of the people, the slower pace of life, and the strong sense of belonging drew me in. When the opportunity arose to move to Kosovo, I seized it eagerly, despite the surprise and skepticism of those around me. The pandemic may have delayed our plans, but it only fueled my determination to make the leap.
Living in Kosovo opened my eyes to a different way of life, where community bonds are cherished, and traditions are passed down through generations. Yet, amidst the beauty of Eastern Europe, I began to long for the diversity and inclusivity of the US. Memories of vibrant summer festivals in Milwaukee, celebrating the city’s various communities, tugged at my heartstrings. The ideals of liberty, freedom, and acceptance that define America started to shine brighter in my mind, even from across the ocean.
While I initially yearned to escape the confines of my homeland, my time in Kosovo taught me to appreciate the unique beauty of the US. The journey of leaving one’s comfort zone and immersing oneself in a new culture can bring about a profound shift in perspective. It took stepping out of my birthplace to truly understand and cherish the values that make America special.
In the end, my experience of living abroad has been a journey of self-discovery, where I learned to embrace the beauty of both the country I left behind and the one I now call home. The contrast between Eastern Europe’s sense of community and America’s diversity has enriched my understanding of the world and deepened my appreciation for the unique qualities of each place.