“Who knows how much further we’ll go on” (For my DC friends)

People are leaving, I have said goodbye to a number of people today, and I have even cried a little bit (not much, I am quite proud of myself!) and I do feel sad. I will, however, not be sad for that long. I will not think about all of you and feel pain and longing. I will remember and laugh.

I know I might complain more than I compliment this country you call the greatest place on earth. But fact is that I do love it here. I love the passion, the patriotism, the self confidence and awareness. I love how (most of you) you are all so open and welcoming, warm and fun!

I have felt myself grow incredibly this semester, some due to classes – I have learnt so much from the professors here, some due to being away from home and taking care of myself, but a lot from you guys. Both the international people, the way we have all learned about each other’s countries, customs and ways of life. But also, of course, from the Americans. Something that probably will surprise (and might annoy) my friends back home is my heightened interest in the world, politics and society. Something I was not that interested in before, but all of you are so into your country, your government etc. The way you discuss, your intelligence (and in some cases – ignorance), all that is provoking and motivating, and I will forever be thankful to the U.S for opening up my interest to things outside of my own personal life. That is something I have severely lacked before.

But except for all of those serious, intellectual things there are so much more. I love you all so much, you are amazing people and I see bright futures for all of you. I would love to tell you all individually what I think of you but I am afraid I will accidentally leave someone out. You all know who you are, and if you feel like you have gotten to know me, then you have probably had an impact on me. You all have. 

I do need to mention Matt, Eric, Tijmen, Samantha, Kayla, Megan, Bethany, Ben - You have all been so special to me for different reasons. If it’s been sitting with me through insane home sickness and lots of crying (Eric), heart ache (Samantha), random girliness and much needed advice (Kayla), being everyone’s own little Dr.Phil (Ben), insane chatting about stupid mistakes and repeating them, and listening to crazy talk (Bethany), general awesomeness and intelligent amazing conversations + a lot of nagging about a certain someone (Megan), being wonderfully open minded, easygoing, helpful and kind (Tijmen), or supporting, fun, loving, having weird ass deep conversations in the middle of the library, crying in tdr, drinking, sharing everything, becoming one of my best friends ever (Matt) – It has all meant so much to me and I will owe you forever.

I will miss you, but I will also come visit again. I will save my tears for something sad and see our goodbyes as see you laters.

You are welcome in Sweden whenever you want to, my home is your home, and goddammit I will make meatballs for you!

Take care, and good luck to you all, whether you are graduating, approaching your senior year or have a few years ahead of you. I know you will all do great, because you are brilliant.

Lots of love, hugs and kisses
/Your Swedish girl