Tracy Chapman Couldn't Find a Reason to Stay, and Neither Can I

"Why Nicaragua?"

Well, that's a loaded question. I could give you the sensible answers you expect, knowing they won't leave either of us convinced, but I have a feeling you're here for the whole and naked truth.

I don't know.

When it came to falling in love with a place I'd never been, there was nothing rational or reasonable about it; only the gravitational pull of everything I hadn't experienced.

I bet I can guess what you're thinking- that it's a nice enough sentiment, but not exactly solid enough to bet on. Surely a pretty feeling is not a durable basket for all of my fragile eggs.
I can dig it. I mean, one should have their shit together before deciding on an international move, shouldn't they?
Worthy questions my friend, but I can't answer them.

I've NEVER had my shit together. To be honest, I'm not confident that day is ever coming, and waiting for life's go-ahead to make the leap seems like a ludicrous idea for someone who wouldn't recognize a queue if it sucker-punched them.

In a society that favours the logical thought process, I've made nearly every one my decisions based on feelings (pretty or otherwise) alone, and I like it that way. I am not afraid of the fall-out of acting upon the plucking of a heartstring. Sticking around because it makes sense? That scares the shit out of me.

So, why Nicaragua?

For a pair of fresh eyes and freshly picked mangoes.

For the love of language and for the challenge of communicating when words fail.

For sunsets and for school children chasing each other through crowded city squares.

For the chance to let go.

For the chance to give back.

Why not?