The journey had come to an end, and goodbyes had to be said. After two years and a half in the States, it was time to get back home. My teacher and classmates promised me to organize a bye-bye party on the last day of school. I was so excited and before I knew I was there standing in the classroom. At that moment; when I saw my friends gathering around me, holding the cake and telling me touching words that showed love and sincerity; I suddenly remembered my first day in Troy when I slapped the backyard door angrily, getting into the kitchen and complaining to my mom that no one wanted to be friends with me. I realized that everything can change if we just give people and ourselves some time.

We took lots of pictures, which I still have in my secret box, and they wrote bye-bye cards for me. In there eyes, I could see clearly many of the times we spent together at school or in the neighborhood as most of them were my neighbors as well. Looking at Courtney reminded me of the P. E. lessons when we used to sit on the gym’s ground and sing the famous ‘Complicated’ by ‘Avril Lavigne’. I can recall that song very well till this very moment. Seeing Ryan poking William reminded me when Mrs. Brown said to my mom: “Dalia had her dues with Ryan already and I will change her seat to give her a break!”. Watching Alicia, Carissa and David whispering reminded me of the days the four of us spent together in the after school program at the playground throwing jokes or even snowballs at one another. I also remembered the Community Center where we gathered for several birthday parties. I even still have the pictures of the board on which they all wrote ‘Happy Birthday Dalia’ in different languages: Korean, Japanese, French, English, and Spanish. Despite the fact that we spent a relatively short time together, we got to know and love each other more than anyone could ever imagine. This moment was so special. Everything I did with my friends and teachers passed through my mind. We spent the whole day recalling memories and hanging around for the last time. It felt bad to know that everything came to an end, but at the same time I was so proud to know that people love me, care about me and miss me when I am gone.

The day was over. I was on the plane heading to Egypt when I realized that yesterday had the proudest moment of my life so far. That period of time living abroad was very rich educationally and socially as I had the chance to know people from a variety of races and cultures. But since I am still thirteen, I believe that my proudest moment is still yet to come. I try to follow my dreams and live everyday like it is my last since tomorrow is not promised to anyone. My dream is to change the world into a better place to live. I try to take one step at a time to make what’s in my mind come true, so… wish me good luck!