It's no secret that I'm addicted (in the best way possible) to coffee. My friends, family, baristas, complete strangers- they all understand that my love for black coffee runs deep. I can usually be found with a coffee in one hand and a perpetual smile on my face.
However, lately I've been thinking about addictions, and the stigmatism associated with the term, "addict." Obviously there are addictions that negatively impact one's life or even destroy relationships, but in one way or another we are all addicted to something. Athletes crave competition, artists thrive in heartbreak, the man on the subway longs for love; we are all searching for a way to satisfy our souls.
Along with coffee, I've accepted the fact that my soul is addicted to adrenaline, endorphins, and new beginnings. I thrive in the feeling of unfamiliarity; where every moment is an opportunity to learn. My first days or weeks in a different country are always my favorite. The initial conversations with people I meet on my travels give me butterflies every time. Additionally, after some analyzation of my past relationships, I've also discovered that the beginnings of those relationships were the most exciting for me. These initial feelings at the beginning of a relationship however are not sustainable, and I move on to another beginning. Consequently, the amount of new beginnings I'm lucky enough to start also result in an infinite amount of goodbyes. I don't truly believe that there are any definitive endings, but that doesn't make the "see you later" any easier.
My work in Iceland has provided countless beginnings that I think about more often than not. Honestly, the only consolation I can offer myself for subduing the amount of goodbyes I endure, is the fact that my memories will always be with me.
Every addiction has a price. Every addiction will take its toll, but for me, I choose to live in a way that satisfies my soul.
What's your addiction?
