Prompt: Fresh

Over 3,000 miles away, the plane descended upon dry, hilly terrain. She swiftly maneuvered her 3 suitcases through the congested arteries of the terminal; everyone scattering off to some adventure. Naivety sped the pace of her feet towards an exit, nearly as quickly as her thoughts. Anxiety. Fear. Determination. All fought for attention in her frontal cortex. No car. No map. Not a friend within three time zones. This was not part of the itinerary. Yet this was precisely what she needed. Just 3 bags and a seed of fortitude, ready to grow and flourish in a fresh new world.

The above paragraph was written in response to the 100 Word Challenge authored by Velvet Verbosity. The scenario took place six years ago when I took my first travel nursing assignment in Southern California. After living in South Florida for over 24 years, I accepted a 3-month assignment at a children’s hospital working in a neonatal cardiac unit. Despite living out of 3 suitcases, alone (my family was not thrilled), without a car, and no one to turn to, this time was pivotal in developing the person I am today. I struggle to find words to accurately describe the intense fear and loneliness I felt during that time. But it challenged me emotionally, physically, and professionally. So I ended up extending my 3-month contract several times. I also later met Dadisodes. Sometimes life really is like a box of chocolates.