I landed in Berlin one year ago today.
I have been here a year!
I have lived in six apartments.
This one is my favorite.
I feel brand-new here.
I have a few friends here.
I cannot navigate this city yet.
German comes more easily, but I still don’t know the words.
I feel brand-new.
After a year lost in thickets of newness
a born-again adolescent awkward and ashamed the mortification of being so unknown that at times I lost my own—
I have returned feeling returned to someone I recognize as myself.
thank you
Still I lose the path sometimes, but when I do I am remembering more and more,
just
look
down,
to my feet on the ground,
to the next step,
to the whole steadfast planet underneath me,
underneath us all.
12 responses to “Ein Jahr”
Hi Emilia, So good to hear that you like your new apartment and are beginning to feel more at home in Berlin! Love, Sam
Thank you, dear Sam!
being you must be the best. Love you and glad you found it again!
Ah, what a wonderful thing to say–thank you! As so often, you love me in ways I need. Thank you and love you, dear faraway Pavi!
Sending you love and hugs from this troubled side of the world. I’ll be in Spain Sept 24-Oct 5, walking the Camino, for Max of course, and seeking some peace!! Wish me luck!! Melissa
Oh, Melissa, as ever, sending you and your family such blessings, and for you especially as you undertake that ancient devoted walk. Viel Glück und große Liebe!
No more moving! I am happy that you found your favorite apartment. I think it is amazing, you are amazing at stepping over the pond for school in life.
Thank you, dear Chip! Of course, it’s up to my friends who are very kindly allowing me to live in their space, but for now, this is certainly a perfect fit, and I am very happy. I appreciate all the love and support. Sending it back your way as you keep being your kind and creative self!
I love you! And your updates. Miss you already but grateful we got a chance to connect while you were in the TCs.
I love you, dear Emily — thank you so much for the time! So grateful for your lifelong friendship! Love to your whole beautiful family, and especially to you!
My dear sister Emilia, I am sorry to be late to the party that…who is you. (Somehow, regrettably, I lost connection with you when you first arrived in Berlin, which your blessed mother Karen hath renewed.) Always praying and bidding you well. Carry on! Love, Paul
Oh, Paul, what a gift to hear from you! I am with you in spirit especially all this month. Thank you for caring for and welcoming home my Mama and my Daddy. Blessings on your good heart and wise ways, always. Love, Emilia