I feel at times I would give anything to go back to Okinawa. The complications of adjusting from the simplicity of island life to the hectic style of life in California is overwhelming. I won't deny I feel incredibly happy to be so close to my family and to have their help with the girls. But I miss the friends I made in Okinawa. I feel slightly separated from my friends here, they've had shared experiences for the years I've been gone. Things have changed in their lives and I haven't experienced them. It's not the same, I can't seem to re-establish those relationships, because I'm busy with my kids. We are different and that is just a fact. Another difficulty are the choices, there are far too many of them. The featured picture is of the ridiculous number of goldfish choices. Every time I find myself in a grocery store aisle starring at 5 choices of rice or chicken stock I feel overwhelmed. I miss the two choices in Okinawa and the chances that one of those choices are out so there is no choice. Little things become hard, making friends, trusting people, understanding people's agendas. It was easier when we all lived on an island and that made for built in bonding.
The separation from family was difficult and now being close to them I feel like I need to learn their likes and dislikes all over again. I've always touted myself as an excellent gift giver but now I don't even know my recipients. I suppose today I'm tired and suffering from a severe case of ennui. I miss the simplicity of my past life, the fact that we never drove more than an hour to get anywhere and we never had too many choices about what to do. Adventures abounded and now they don't seem like they exist even though we have so many more miles to explore.
I suppose it will all change, adjustments will be made and I will get use to these things, but for now it will remain a challenge.
Hang in there Theresa! I know Duff and I will be going thru these same things in just a few months time when we return to SoCal. Reverse culture shock. It's normal and will eventually work itself out. And, I know how you feel about having too many choices - I was always blinded by choice when in the States. I even found a book that goes into the topic called "The Paradox of Choice" by Barry Schwartz. I have yet to read it, but maybe I should read it before getting back Stateside. Big hugs.
ReplyDeleteYou really described exactly what everyone goes through after leaving Okinawa! I knew it was going to be hard but I really thought by now I would be adjusted. Life was really GOOD and now we're back to reality! Love you tons, our bond will never be broken and I will always be around for you!!!
ReplyDeleteI swear Okinawa is some kind of magical island. So many people have quite an awakening after living there and get to know themselves so much better.
ReplyDeleteWe were told to prepare for a culture shock BEFORE going to Oki but nobody mentions the culture shock AFTER leaving! I would love to transport everyone back to Oki and experience it again (like "Lost" but without the freaky stuff). It's been almost a year and I'm still adjusting. We moved to an area not knowing a soul. Neighbors already have friends/family and don't need an "extra" ... it's like going to a party and watching from outside. We're SLOWLY getting there but it's taking forever!
I have to agree with you on the choices. I've had to go to the commissary a few times just so I wasn't overwhelmed! Never thought that would happen!
Hugs to you ... I know it will get better.
-Angie