The weather here continues to be in flux mirrored by our feelings this past week or so. At times each of us have been challenged by negative thoughts or doubts of one sort or another. Staying in one place for such an extended period of time has an interesting impact that is somewhat different from those on our usual shorter summer travels. These impacts are are varied and can lift spirits or taint one’s day if allowed. To be sure though, spending an extended period of time in a different country by its very nature permits more introspection of long and short term goals as well as potential desires or lifestyle changes. It is easy to move from living in the moment to dwelling more in the future or the past, both of which can make a person feel adrift or unsettled.
I notice that the Fulbright grantees appear to be moored by their projects and are at times more tethered against the flow of unsettling emotions. However, I’ve heard that their findings are often surprising and can bring their own pull of considered career shifts and/or changes in their usual classroom realms. As for family members who have accompanied them, those with hobbies and projects of their own have a familiar way of engaging themselves which, I believe, makes transitioning to a new country and different daily demands smoother and less disruptive, if not more rewarding. Both my children have started engaging in familiar physical activities similar to home as well as creative projects in Finland for this very reason. Structure brings a foundation of security and contentment, and when combined with opportunities for exciting new experiences and creativity, enhances a sense of fulfillment and well being. I am proud of my family for this as it has helped offsetting feelings such as homesickness and anxiety about the future. In fact, they are now venturing out confidently on their own each day and are becoming much more emotionally balanced.
I guess that is why Finns value hobbies and activities so much, and why most people have at least one that they engage in several times per week, such as playing a musical instrument or producing art or homecrafts. The healthful value of hobbies and activities are widely recognized here and is probably why a Finn is more likely to ask another about their hobbies than what they do for a living; the positive aspects of the hobby or chosen activity speak more about how the person elects to spend their time and so what they are like as a person.
As for me, I have to remember that moving to a new country for more than half a year does not automatically allow you to leave your innermost thoughts and beliefs back at home. You bring both your physical and spiritual baggage with you. It’s all about being content and productive in the moment and making positive choices each day that will enhance this gift of perspective that distance and time offers.
