A Long November Journey to Groningen
In November, the days in the Netherlands turn sharply cold. The weather forecast for the next day wasn’t very promising, yet I decided to make the long trip to my university in Groningen because there was an important course I needed to attend.
The next morning, it seemed the trains were struggling with the cold. But I had no doubt in my mind. I got up on time, stepped into the dark at 7:30 a.m., and headed out the door. I spent almost three hours on the train, drinking the warm tea I had brought from home and having my breakfast. Then, suddenly, the sun came out and shone through the train window — an unexpected and comforting surprise.
I arrived at the course on time, and it turned out to be very informative. I enjoyed it even more because I had the opportunity to present myself there. And to my delight, my lovely teacher gave me a small gift: a traditional local treat, Groninger koek.
After the course, I took a walk through the city and later returned to my university building. As soon as I saw it, memories from twelve years ago came back to me, and my eyes quietly filled with tears. It felt like stepping back into another version of myself.
After a long and fulfilling day, I sat on the train again, reading my book and enjoying the special cake. It was the sweetest ending to a meaningful journey.
My wisdom sentence of the day:
“Even when doubt whispers, effort answers — and the path rewards the brave.”
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