Changed

The other day in Spanish class I was asked how have I changed since I arrived here in Ecuador. At first I could not answer my teacher, but as I thought about it I begun to see that the person that left the United States is not the same person returning back in April. I have seen so much here in Ecuador, that the way I view the world, yes the world, is totally different. One thing I have noticed that has changed is my way of thinking about different cultures, and the people that live in those different cultures. I use to be that person that would say "oh that Mexican is an immagrant", or I would say "they do not need to be in my country if they cannot speak the language." I was young, and uninformed back then. I could never think like that again. I understand that people, not just Mexicans, see the United States as a place for opportunity, hope, and prosperity. For those that has not had the chance to leave the United States does not understand the way other counrties view ours. We can be born poor and it not define us for the rest of our life, we can go to school with out having to be rich. Things we over look, people in other countries see them as blessings. I came to this country and did not know much Spanish, it seemed as if I did not know anything, to be honest. People attitude was not as mine was about people needing to know their language.They were understanding, some helped, and of course some walked away, or laughed at me. My point, however, is that my way of thinking has changed. For me I wanted this study abroad trip to be about learning Spanish. I did not know, think, or prepare myself for the affect this country has had on me. Anyone who thinks studying aborad is only about learning the language is wrong. It is about finding yourself, or learning about yourself. It is about learning about the people around you, it is about developing a sense for other cultures. It is about seeing outside the bubble we know as home. Studying abroad is about becoming a better person. I like to think I am a better person then before. So when I reflect on that question what has changed about me since I've arrived here in Ecuador I would have to say everything, and I am glad that I am this new person I know today.