Out of comfort zone

"Life begins at the end of your comfort zone" (Neale Walsh)

I cried the first two weeks I was in Japan four years ago. Life was so depressing mainly because the language barrier I faced in daily life. In school, my lab mates were almost all boys with only one girl. And they, like common Japanese, were quiet (and shy). Well, not having confidence to speak in English might become one of the reason though. They went lunch without inviting me, often even eating instant noodles at lab. Very different environment with the one I usually had in Indonesia. I felt shoved out. 

Life was better at dormitory where I have few good friends, one of them was also Indonesian. Thanks to a senior in my faculty, I was introduced to other Indonesian students until finally I found a family away from home which I really grateful of. They were the one who kept me sane.

Despite the academic stress, different culture brought stress at its own. Not to mention the homesick part. No one to be asked for help. No one to lean on. No one to talk to. You just want to shout, "Get me out of here and return me to my comfort zone!" And when you feel so, crying is the only thing you can do because there is no way to run away from reality. Crying will make you feel better yet the situation remains. You have to think and act afterward to manage your discomfort. As for me, I chose not to care it much and tried to accept the situation as commonly happen in Japan. I studied Japanese language. I created my own pace, my new comfort zone without caring other people's opinion or action. Luckily I survived. It needs tears to make you stronger. 

This time, the adaption process is much more smooth. Yes, thanks to the experience, but somehow my current lab mates are more lively. Is there a relation between pure life science and social science/engineering background with the students' behavior? Hm, interesting question to answer. Different situation indeed, but many to be thankful for. There must be fine reason(s) for Allah swt to place me in this country one more time. And I shall seek for the answer in one year ahead. Hopefully.

-Special post for Niken and Vicka.- 

[Image is from here}