There's a moment when you come back that you realize you're not only back, but that you're
back. You're doing the very thing you thought you'd never do again. The thing you laughed at your fellow community members for doing, couldn't believe you ever did. It's not even big-the big things really do
change. It's the small that creeps back in. All those conversations with your international friends, blocked at customs:
"You Americans always carry your drinks from home around. You don't even have time to sit and enjoy a drink. You have to bring it with you, wherever you go."
Or better,
"You Americans are so thirsty, you always have to have a drink with you. You can't wait until you are home. You have to have it right away. So impatient."
The morning simply arrives. You're rushed, you haven't finished your coffee, then bam-you're driving down the road with a ceramic cup from home in your hand trying not to spill.
As soon as you see the cup, you remember. It's a sassy moment.
If you've recovered enough from re-entry, it is also a most glorious laugh with one's self. This is my hope for you, dear friends. Laughter is the only way through...