NICOLE KLIEST
London Columnist
So many new faces and places. Over the past couple months I have reinstated my philosophy of living life to the fullest. I was told on several occasions before coming to London that I would change. I did not believe it until about a couple weeks ago.
It was a Thursday afternoon as I was lying in Hyde Park soaking in the rare warmth that I realized why I am here. What I realized is that I am here for change and purpose.
There were so many aspects of my old self that needed to grow up, and, since being here, I have come to understand so much about myself, other people and society.
One thing that I often ponder is whether I ever really “lived” before. Obviously I obtain the essentials to life such as a beating heart, but, as for the embracing of the good things, I realize I have lacked passion.
Coming to Europe has put so many things into perspective for me. It has taught me to appreciate this world and this life that God gave us. Something that truly helped me with this was our educational field trip to Greece.
While in Greece, our group discovered treasures such as the Apollo Temple, the infamous Acropolis, the ancient cities of Corinth and Delphi, the breathtaking Acrocorinth and cheap taxis.
One of the most beloved places our group visited was Mars’ Hill. It was there that Paul delivered one of his most famous sermons, Acts 17:22-31.
It is an almost spellbinding thought to think that a group of 40 Pepperdine students stood in the exact spot Paul did so long ago.
Another spellbinding thought is that eight Pepperdine students decided to bungee jump off a bridge 240 feet up from the Corinth Canal. Yes, 240 feet.
As crazy as this may sound, I was at a point in my life where I needed to just let go. Let go of my fears, let go of my hesitance and just jump. It is certainly an experience that I feel honored to have had and to have shared with seven amazing people.
Back in London, life and experiences for the London house have been outstanding. Groups have been traveling to places such as Barcelona, Salzburg, Heidelberg, Normandy, Florence, Dublin, Portugal and other beautiful locations.
Although the days are closing in, the satisfaction derived from this experience as a whole leaves us with a piece of each other’s hearts and minds. We have grown closer through the trips, the ridiculously early flights, the awkward Halloween party in the lounge, the breakfasts we all ate too much of, the classes and the daily interactions.
I once heard a powerful quote on “Sex and the City” that has stuck with me ever since, and it stated, “After all, seasons change. So do cities. People come into your life and people go. But it’s comforting to know the ones you love are always in your heart. And if you’re very lucky, a plane ride away.”
I am comforted by the fact that no matter where I go in life, this experience has shaped me into what I want to be. Whether it be a year in London, a day in Hyde Park or bungee jumping, experiences are who we are. It is up to us to seek them out.
11-16-2006