Mentally and physically drained after the long journey, all I wanted to do was hide in my warm, comfortable bed at home like an animal seeking refuge. Instead I found myself being attacked by a barrage of never-ending questions. Finally my exhaustion overcame me, and I gratefully escaped to the place that was to become my sanctuary, for some much needed sleep.
Sleep however eluded me that night as an overwhelming sense of panic settled in. I missed the familiarity of my own bedroom and the security of my possessions around me. Nonetheless, I put on a brave face and decided my strategy to cope with the next three weeks. After a quick tour of the house, I was bundled off to school first thing in the morning.
Thankfully, being surrounded by familiar faces once again, my nerves began to calm and I came to the realisation that I might as well make the most out of my situation. They say that you only get out of life what you put in, and this certainly became apparent to me.
The following days quickly developed a rhythm and with my increased familiarity with the French language, my confidence slowly returning enabling me to at least relax and enjoy myself as much as I could. Days merged into a succession of visits to art museums, cultural tours of the area, and recreational pursuits, complemented, of course, by the rigours of life in a French school.
One major event that I still remember just as vividly as it happened is the first weekend at he house of my correspondent. Waking up that morning, I intended to relax in my room where I was safe from constant embarrassment and probing questions. My plans soon were forced to change. After having my usual breakfast put in front of me, I was informed that I was to spend the whole day at my partner’s aunt’s house.
Just as quickly as it had only a week ago, my confidence and security departed like the sun in England. I was ordered to change quickly, and, as I felt too embarrassed to say I would rather stay in my room, I obeyed meekly. After sitting through hours of continuous french description of the area through which we travelled, I felt almost relieved as the car stopped abruptly.
I briefly wondered what I would be doing during a normal weekend in my own house. Lying in a warm bed, watching television with my head propped up by soft pillows. Instead I was here about to face yet another barrage of relentless questions by yet another French person. I even wished to be back at school, such was my fear.
This however was to be short-lived as I was sent down to the games room with my partner’s cousin. After a couple of hours, I actually began to relax as I was engulfed with familiar objects. To top the visit off, I tried some cake after much persuasion, which actually was very delicious and was a speciality of the area. As I was driven back, a small smile appeared on my face, and I thought that I shouldn’t automatically conclude the worst but be more enthusiastic.
Finally, the day came, and it was time to return home. It was with mixed feelings that I packed my suitcase and prepared for the journey back to England. Settling into my own bed that night, I reflected on my adventure and resolved in future that I should not pre-judge situations nor jump to conclusions quickly. From then on I felt that I should be more optimistic and tackle new challenges that stand in my way, with enthusiasm.
