The Value of Trying
I've been away from home for over two months, in a land very different from that which I call home. I traded the rural Canadian winter for the coastal Nicaraguan summer. I left an English speaking culture for a Spanish speaking one, and I don't speak Spanish.
We know that the act of trying grows us, even if we don't always succeed or win right away. I've been reminded that stepping out of my comfort zone into a new place will give me as many opportunities to try new things as I am willing to show up for. Below are some ways I've tried in the last couple months that have made my experience richer.
Food: Nicaragua is the land of exotic fruit, and I've had the chance to try a few new things down here. Tamarinds and calalas come to mind as my top two bitter-awesome discoveries, jack-fruit reminds me of low key bubble gum, and papaya, though awesome in smoothies, is something I can live without. There are a couple other things I never learned the names of that I didn't really enjoy, but I'm not sad I tried them. I learned!
Language: I speak French, not Spanish, but I didn't let that stop me from trying to communicate with the beautiful locals and resort staff, many of whom don't speak English. I use Google translate a lot, smile tons, and most of the time look like I'm playing charades as I try to clarify myself and my questions. It gets the job done, and there's been a lot of laughter over the last couple of months. I've had to humble myself, and in that I've forged some beautiful connections with some of the most lovely souls I'll ever meet.
Surfing: It's been over twenty years since I had a surf lesson, and I was admittedly a little scared to try after weeks of learning how powerful the waves were during my ocean swims. I got pounded on my first morning in Beginner's Bay, and ended my time with a wave smashing my board into my face. It left a mark on my face and my ego. Thankfully my twelve-year-old niece, and others, shared their epic surf fails and bails with me over the next day and I showed up the following two days at low tide. It wasn't enough time to master the art of surfing, but it was enough to plant a seed. Laying on the waves, and learning to read them, pursue them, and respect them was enough to woo me. On my next visit I'll be more intentional about learning to read tides and fitting surf lessons into my schedule.
By showing up and being willing try during my time away I've discovered new awesome foods and flavours, made new friends, and added new goals to my vision board.
Max out your next trip or holiday by changing your mindset before you arrive, and it'll transform your entire experience.
