Change

I’ve lived at over two dozens addresses across six different countries in my adult life.

I’ve moved every 4 months on average.

And I love it.

My memories are compartmentalized into distinct chapters. Important moments are associated with where I was living at the time.

Each move is an opportunity to get rid of bad habits and continue good ones.

Each place allows me to learn more about myself and my preferences. Which comforts and conveniences do I want to keep in my life and which do I not need.

Each move is an escape from the people I don’t want in my life anymore while the internet allows me to stay in touch with those special few that I do.

Each place teaches me a little more about the world. Almost everyone is proud of their home and eager to share why it’s special.

Each move is an excuse to downsize. To get rid of the excess and only take what fits in a car or a backpack.

This isn’t to say it’s easy.

Each time I move, there is a predictable cycle.

For the first few days, it’s uncomfortable. I have to meet new friends and neighbors, I have to find a new gym, I have to get used to different grocerie stores and other local services. At this point, I’m considering heading back to where I was before.

Around a week in, I’ve settled in and decided there is no going back. I like it here.

I make the new space fit my needs. I make new friends. I learn about the new town or neighborhood. I pick up some words in the local language.

I fall in love with the place.

Then I move again.

It becomes just a warm memory.

Another chapter in my story.