Living in a foreign country for three years gives you a sense of confidence. You believe you have seen enough to handle what comes your way. You understand the systems, the culture, and the routines. But sometimes, a single season can remind you that living abroad is a continuous learning process.
This year, winter feels different. Colder, longer, and heavier than before. It is not just the temperature—it is the way it changes everyday life. Outdoor activities that once felt manageable now require planning, layers, and patience. Simple tasks like walking, commuting, or running errands demand more effort and energy.
“When the Weather Feels Like a New Country Itself”
There are days when the cold feels overwhelming. The wind tests your endurance, and the snow slows everything down. You question your choices while standing at a bus stop, hands numb, breath visible in the air. These moments are challenging, especially when your body and mind are still adjusting.
There is beauty in watching fresh snow cover the city, in quiet streets and glowing lights reflecting off icy paths. You learn to appreciate warm drinks, cozy evenings, and the small victories—like mastering winter clothing or completing a walk you once avoided.
This winter has taught me that adaptation does not end with time. Even after years abroad, new experiences continue to shape you. Struggling does not mean failing. It means you are still learning.
Living abroad is not about becoming comfortable forever. It is about growing through every unfamiliar season—even the coldest ones.
