An Overdue Reflection from a Globetrotter's Mother

Today as we reflect 15 years ago and remember what peace in the world does NOT look like, I suppose now is as good as time as any to catch up on what life has been like since my globetrotting son has returned.

Aaron and Orsi in Budapest

Even though Aaron is still unsure, to some degree, why he ever went on the nine month excursion, one of the main reasons Rotary International voluntarily sponsors youth is to build goodwill and peace in the world. I can tell you, from my perspective, I know Aaron has now seen the world with fresh eyes. He continues to keep in contact with friends around the world. In fact, before he left Europe he managed to arrange a weekend trip to Hungary so he could re-connect with an exchange student who had stayed in Indiana the year prior to his leaving.

Aaron also managed to achieve one of his goals which was to complete a mostly unimaginable task. While he never quite mastered it, he learned the basics of a notably difficult language. He learned to enjoy having a brother...on more than one occasion. He learned to adapt to different personalities in the home. He learned how much he valued driving. He learned how much he valued hard work and earning a wage. He learned how much he valued education with a purpose. He learned the joy of capturing beauty with photography. He learned to value travel. He learned how much he valued random hugs and reminders of love.

He learned.

What I find most intriguing is that I know we have barely unwrapped the gift of this exchange. I am convinced that it will only be as the months lead to years and years to decades that Aaron will be able to look back and realize the huge impact it had on his life.  

Fishers Body Plant, Detroit

Now what can I tell you about life since his return? There have been changes in Aaron that we have noted. We were aware he'd come back about 40 pounds lighter, but his change in appetite caught us off guard. He eats smaller portions now. Three months since his touch down back in the USA and he hasn't gained any of the weight back. He also thinks nothing of taking a little extra time to see the sights and get some interesting photos. For example, he explored abandoned buildings in Detroit, and traveled alone to Chicago after the CSRYE conference to take pictures of iconic locations. Now he's got the itch to go to Mackinaw, Michigan for viewing the night sky.

Check out more of Aaron's photos
at AMRorick Photography on facebook.

Now luckily, somewhere along the line in his life he has obtained a fairly good sense of money management. Otherwise, I think every day he had off from work he'd be in his vehicle making a trip to a new horizon.

Speaking of horizons, his next one, in general, hasn't changed. He still has his spot reserved at guitar building and repair trade school in Big Rapids, Michigan. He is set to start in January, 2017. He seems genuinely interested and excited about this next step. Aaron really loves working with his hands, making things work, and creating unique items.

So let me finish with a bit of a confession. After my last post...the one I wrote before Aaron came home...the one that admitted Mike and I were feeling "apprehensive" about Aaron's return...we could hear it in Aaron's voice on the phone that the post made him feel sad. In hindsight, it might not have been my best move. However, he and I talked it out, and he understood I didn't write anything he and I hadn't previously shared. Nonetheless, it hurt him.

So Aaron, I know you'll read this. I know you know I'm sorry about that post. But I want you to know something else. Even though I'm still much the same Mom, and I still nag you about too much stuff...I really, really am thankful to have you home. I really, really love the random hugs. I really, really will never take for granted all the "I love you's." It really is good to have you home.

Airport Reunion