I have just realized that each time I feel isolated here in the Jura it is because of something going on with my neighbors.
In the States, I would have simply thought I have bad neighbors. However, since I am an expat in a new country it is too easy to in a sense blame the new country.
In truth, everyone has been super nice to me minus some of my crazy neighbors since I have moved into our village.
Sure the Swiss mothers in my village aren’t going to be my best friends right away. But, you know half the mothers that I was friends with in the States talked behind each others backs.
I think the real problem is I have to rethink what friendship is REALLY. And, perhaps my issues with fitting in are more about me than them.
The first year as an expat is the hardest.
I know that from experience.
However, even if it is at times challenging learning a new culture I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I love our life here in Switzerland.
I have to find that part of my brain that compares everything to the US and turn it off!!!
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I’d love to go back and experience some of the same things. I feel the same way here in Canada and I even speak the language! It’s hard at times away from your good friends.
I think that is part of the problem. I don’t have family and friends from back home here with me. I don’t have that daily support that we often take forgranted.
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