Today's Daily: The Need to Try

So, as many of you know, I am participating in a Intensive German course that lasts all morning until 1pm. At first, I was really hesitant in going because it is such a big amount of time in my day, but I have been pleasantly surprised thus far. Today was the 3rd day in the course, and we studied on grammar. There was in particular one read that was talking about how technology has advanced in today's society and that the average person has more free time for dinner, etc. than 30 years ago. After reading this, we all discused how we felt about the topic and started to have a real culture sharing experience. I really loved this moment. We discussed how Americans work so much, how the Germans enjoy their holidays, and how each country values the opinions of others.

Half-way through the course we took a break and all of us proceeded to go outside to enjoy the little amount of sun we have left. This was the moment that I recognized my need to try. Here we were, standing in a small group, and everybody was scared to interact with one another. It was then that I recognized my habit of holding back, being scared and turning inward. But someone broke the ice! I was so thankful when the lady next to me started to talk about what I was wearing that day and it was then that I decided to simply speak! Just speak my mind, and try to trust myself that I could communicate my feelings with the German I have. I was so surprised at how much more I know than I thought. We all chit chatted the rest of the time we were in class and it made things so much more fun and interesting! We even had intense discussions about politics, cultures, family life, etc. I felt that at that very moment, when someone felt the need to try, it opened so many doors of communication and friendships.

What made this experience even more special and interesting was around 11pm. A random girl who comes to the classes, never participates, and looks as if she hates every second she is in the room with us came to class. She sat there and it felt like a cold brick of ice next to me. She didnt want to try, and I realized then how important it is to try in this world.

Now, I realize the word 'try' is always beat up for its definition. That famous line from our favourite Star Wars character 'There is no try, only do.' is true! What I believe personally however is that each and everyone of us needs to gain the desire to attempt what seems at the moment the impossible! That is what trying means to me. You leap out of your comfort zone, and you reap something from that.