There is so much truth and so much to learn from the great Star wars movies. Just as I was writing another post, I realized just how much I could transfer into my life as an expat. Most of the characters are expats there, and are learning to cope on new planets. (I know we feel that way sometimes.)
Going for the real wisdom, I decided to write a post on the insights of the little green guy we all know and love. Thank you Yoda for all this goodness.
“You must unlearn what you have learned.”
Rule number one of expat life! When moving to another culture, almost nothing is the same, the way you think must change to accommodate the new truths.
“Try not. Do or do not. There is no try.”
You must acclimate. You came here for change, a new start, a new job, a new life, a great adventure. Do what you meant to do or go home.
“Named must your fear be, banish it if you can.”
Sometimes we are so overwhelmed with all the changes,we cannot name what it is that is overtaking us. Find some quiet time, meditate, and riddle out what that fear is. And do what you can to overcome.
“Already know, that which you need.”
We know our basic needs, find a way to meet them. That is often a challenge in the expat world. But with perseverance, time, and some help, you can find what you need. Sometimes we even learn to create it ourselves. That inspires more self-confidence. What a Win/Win!!
“Fear is the path to the dark side, fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate. Hate is the path to the dark side.”
Fearing the change, the different, the challenges is only going to weaken you. Make you vulnerable. Muster the courage to face your fears or you will be taken by the dark side. Expat depression is the evil we all battle. Becoming bitter and angry as a result is the equivalent of going to the dark side.
“To be a jedi is to face the truth and choose. Give off light or darkness, padawan. Be a candle or the night.”
This is the fight we all fight. In our times of darkness, we make a choice. Choosing the light may be hard, but it makes a better world for all of us.
“Calm you shall keep, carry on you must.”
Even in trying times, when the rug is pulled out from under you and you don’t know which way is up, keep calm and carry on.
“If no mistake you have made, losing you are. A different game you should play.”
In the expat game, it is inevitable to make mistakes. We learn large lessons from them. We are humbled, and wizened. We become stronger and better for the next lesson. It is just around the corner. If you aren’t making mistakes you need to get out and make some! They make for great stories later in life and great blog posts now! 😉
“Much to learn you still have my old padawan… This is just the beginning.”
The learning curve is constant. Once we overcome one thing, we have not finished. We have never arrived. What would be the fun in that? This is an exciting adventure. When you are tired, get some rest and be ready for the next lesson.
Dobar Dan Y’all! and may the force be with you!
Chronicles of Serbia 