A Time of Goodbyes

These past few weeks have been a busy set of days. It seems friends here have been steadily leaving – and the goodbye occasions have been plentiful. This is all well and great but it has taken away from my blogging efforts. Somehow though, I have found time to type away tonight…

Two good friends have been particularly taking up my time: Devin and Nigel. I met Devin through my Bundang soccer team – and Nigel was a buddy of Devin’s. Although I had met this pair a few months ago, it wasn’t until recently that we really connected. Something seemed to click – as they got along with my good buddies: Mark and Phil. Ironically enough, we started to go out a lot in the last few weeks of their time here in South Korea.

Devin was heading back to Canada, while Nigel was departing on a tour of Asia for several months. So, due to the emergency of their exit, we were forced to bond very quickly – and firmly. It resulted in many good times and good memories. I will surely miss them. Korea won’t quite be the same without them. Through these two, I’ve met a ton of great people as well…so I feel somewhat indebted to them.

Without them here, I think my Korean experience undoubtedly changes. Hopefully now I can chill a little more – yet I think they’ve installed in me a sense of energy and adventure. In a way, Korea seems new again. I’m thankful for this – as this will most certainly be my last in Korea. I think it’s time for Mark, Phil and I to pick up the torch where they left off (along with other cohorts picked up along the way) and continue to get the most out of Korea.

Beyond friends, soccer has been looking good. Our Bundang squad really seems to be coming together. Only tighter and stronger. I’m honestly surprised at how far we’ve come in such a short time. I also finally got a chance to take in some EPL this past weekend. I watched Chelsea and Man U settle for a draw last night – and it felt good. I think I almost forgot how much I miss watching some good footie.

Peace!

-Paul