Letter from San francisco
I am at San Francisco airport waiting to board my flight back to Moldova, as I write this letter. The last 2 weeks I have spent with my cousin Max, his wife Zerah and my cute 3 year old nephew Noah. My aunt and uncle from Toronto, Canada, have also flown in for a week for Noah’s birthday. This two weeks have been filled of excitement, as I got to reconnect not only with my family but also with my highschool friends. I also had exciting work-related meetings. Needless to say, it’s been a packed trip. Here are some lessons learned I am taking away with me:
If one can negotiate with a 3 year old in a Non-violent way, one can definitely do it with an adult
Zerah’s and Max’s communication with Noah is based on respect, telling the truth, negotiating honestly, validating feelings and gentle touch. It has once again reminded me about NVC (non-violent communication) and how much it would benefit so many adults to practice it, and learn empathy towards themselves and those around them. I know it is a skill that I will be pursuing to improve.
Friends you know for almost 3 decades are friends forever
In true fashion of my friend Cristina, who is currently a highly respected professor at Iowa State university, she has planned a surprise visit for Marina’s birthday, flying to Berkley where she currently resides. Merely a 30 minute trip from San Francisco, and I felt a warm feeling of belonging wash over me. Seeing the faces of my old friends, reminded how precious our relationship has been and is. We were friends, parents, supporters and mentors to each other in the most formative years of our lives. Who we are today is very much influenced by our sisterhood. I am grateful beyond words the women we have grew to be, and the 16 year old us would have never thought we would be celebrating a 35 year birthday in Berkley, USA.
Taking a break can look differently
Though I have woken up daily at 6:30-7am, my brain has relaxed in a different way being away from home. Not worrying constantly about the political situation, war, etc. has been a much needed mental break. It’s a privilege I recognize and appreciate tremendously.
Time with family and friends is priceless
My decision to make this trip happen was triggered by several events. First one happened a long time ago, as I was viewing photos from Marina’s and Cristina’s wedding ceremonies here in the US, which I was not able to attend. Back then it hit me, that I missing out on so many important life events of the people I care about. Second reason, is war. Suddenly, I realized that there is never a good timing, but in a matter of a second it can be too late, so I should stop postponing the opportunity to see family and bond with them.
My gratitude goes to myself as well for allowing me feel like this is an experience I deserve to have. For now this is all that I wanted to share in this letter.
Cheers,
Polina
PS: this text has been written and edited without the assistance of AI.