Time is...

The leaves, strewn across cobblestone paths, succumbing to the weight of footsteps in a moment of excruciating pleasure; a moment wherein these two forces reach an ecstasy that is gone before fully understood, and forgotten by the time the foot's contact ceases; and all that remain are the leaves, golden, and in ruin. Does there exist a more emphatic scene to demonstrate the passage of time? Once a vibrant green and atop majestic trees, the leaves now decorate the streets, and with the softest of whispers, remind us that the sands of Time continue to fall.

Time, a perpetual entity by its very nature, is the contradiction of man, of mortality. Yet, it is our very own mortality that comes to be defined in terms of this eternal entity. This juxtaposition between the eternal and the non-eternal creates a relationship that is oftentimes menacing, for once those grains of sands have fallen, they cannot be regained. This, however, should not be cause for anxiety. Time, in itself, is objective, neither good nor bad. It is man's mind that decorates it, and turns it from the objective to the subjective. And thus, it is from man's mind that we harness (albeit superficially) Time, and in many ways, it is with the mind that we come to define it. Man's perspective has the ability to shape, create, and distort. Therefore, it is no surprise that the definition of time is relative in relation to each individual's perspective. I apologize for this discombobulated piece. Through this mess, I am simply asking what does time mean for you? And more importantly, being aware of your mortality, are you using your time wisely? It is almost too heavy of a question to ask, and one that cannot be answered easily.

Tomorrow I will have been here for three months, and this is a question I have been asking myself as of late. In reality, I have had many enjoyable experiences within those three months: I spent a great weekend in Paris with loved ones (and as I remember, I am struck by the immense beauty that comes from spending time with those you love. Our strolls through chaotic streets, through slumbering neighborhoods, through herds of people, along a quietly flowing Seine, the glasses of wine, the laughter, the music floating all around, the jolts of the Metro, the smiles. Yes, Paris is alive! She breathes, she feels, she smiles, she cries. With one seductive kiss, she fills your lungs with her taste, and instantly, you are forever altered.  All of this beauty, and I have shared it with you two. Thank you.), I partied the night away in Ljubljana with new friends, I have seen a notable improvement in my conversational skills, I have ran along a glistening Adriatic while the sun set in a glorious blaze, as if it were her last, I have walked home at night (from parties, dinners, gatherings), I have danced, laughed, smiled, I have felt the caressing touch of rain, I have felt the cold chill of the Bora, and I have felt the warmth of a smiling sun. It's funny, looking at this list (and although I have let many things out), it seems like I have enjoyed many great experiences. Why doesn't it feel like it is enough? Am I expecting too much? From whom? I don't know the answer yet, but I am sure I will find it...hopefully. I know that I am incredibly fortunate to be in the position that I find myself in. This is, for all intents and purposes, an opportunity of a lifetime. I hope I am making the most of my time here.