I saw this writing prompt today and immediately knew what quote I’d share, even if it’s not strictly a quote, or at least one attributable to some wise wordsmith. Maybe it’s more of a credo or a mantra. I know for Joan and I during this change in out lives have leaned on this repeatedly.
What if it all works out?
Selling everything, pulling up roots and moving to a new country is not for the faint of heart. The architecture may be charming. The food and wine can be amazing. But the effort required to start anew in a different country, particularly when you don’t speak the language, is non-trivial.
It’s easy to dwell on the enormity of the task — learning a new language, navigation a different culture, working through a bureaucracy that runs (walks) at a pace that demands deep breathes and patience.
It’s easy to worry over what might go wrong. What if our visas aren’t approved? What if we can’t find a suitable apartment? What if we struggle to set up utilities, or buy groceries, or get a haircut?
And so, our mantra during this transition has been a different kind of ‘what if.’
What if it all works out?
The statement doesn’t mean blindly wishing for smooth sailing, but acknowledges that everything working out is a very real option. It may test us and exercise muscles that have been dormant, but (knock on wood) it’s working out.
We got our visas. The dogs made it to France safely and have adjusted nicely to life here. We found a great apartment (with A/C!), and have made friends with other expats. We’re settled into our place, and now building new routines that include which market to visit, and when to get baguettes at our favorite boulangère.
We’re now setting our sights on travel plans, including hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, our first trip to Estonia and Finland, and some time in western France in a language immersion program. It feels very much like the chapter on moving to France is coming to a close, and we’re starting the next chapter.
What if it all works out?
There’s always the chance that something doesn’t work out. We may have to adjust our plans or correct our course. But this mantra has been really helpful for keeping us moving forward.