A beautifully layered journey to come!

Introduction-

I’m now looking forward to the beautifully layered journey to come!  With the great significance of reconnecting with my roots, exploring the emotions tied to seeing the land of my heritage for the first time, and how to handle the blend of excitement and possibly apprehension.

This trip marks a deeply personal journey, one that transcends a simple vacation. Born and raised in the diaspora, I’ve always felt a pull towards Eritrea, a place I've heard stories about but never seen with my own eyes. This journey back "home" is my first, and it feels like a momentous step towards bridging the gap between my roots and my present.

Our trip begins in Egypt, where my husband's family hails from. Egypt holds its own stories and connections for us, and starting our journey there adds another layer to this experience of reconnection. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the ancient echoes of history along the Nile, Egypt will be our first chapter before we move on to Eritrea, where my story continues.

Anticipation and Expectations-

As the departure date nears, I find myself grappling with a mix of emotions.  There’s an undeniable excitement—finally, I’ll be able to see the landscapes, taste the foods, and meet the people that have shaped so many of the stories I grew up hearing.  But alongside that excitement is a sense of nervousness. How will I be received?  Will I feel at home, or will the years spent away create a sense of distance?

I’m anticipating a journey filled with new sights and experiences, but also one that is deeply familiar, as if walking into a place I’ve always known but never seen. The language, the customs, the very air of Eritrea—these are all things I’ve carried with me in some form, but now they’ll become real.

Identity and Belonging-

Identity is a complex concept for anyone in the diaspora. I've built my sense of self around a duality—Eritrean at heart, but shaped by the world I grew up in. This trip forces me to confront and reconcile these parts of my identity. There’s a hope that visiting Eritrea will solidify my sense of belonging, yet I’m also aware that it might challenge the way I’ve understood myself.

The expectation to connect deeply with my heritage could feel overwhelming at times, especially if I face moments where I don’t quite fit in as seamlessly as I hope. But I remind myself that this trip isn’t about perfection; it’s about exploration, learning, and embracing the journey, with all its uncertainties.

Cultural Immersion and Reconnection-

One of the aspects I’m most looking forward to is immersing myself in Eritrean culture. From the rich aromas of traditional dishes like injera and tsebhi to the rhythmic sounds of Tigrinya spoken around me, I plan to dive headfirst into every experience.

I’m eager to participate in family gatherings, hear stories passed down through generations, and visit places that hold historical significance. The opportunity to walk the same streets my ancestors once walked and to reconnect with relatives who have lived through the country's history is something I cherish. This is more than just a visit; it's a cultural and familial homecoming.

Handling Emotional Complexities-

With such a significant journey comes a whirlwind of emotions. I expect moments of joy, where I feel a deep connection to the land and people, but I also anticipate moments of sadness or even frustration. There may be times when the gap between my experiences in the diaspora and the reality of life in Eritrea feels wide, and that’s okay.

Handling these emotional complexities will require mindfulness—allowing myself to fully experience each emotion without judgment. I plan to take things one day at a time, savouring the highs and taking care of the lows with compassion as needed. This trip is as much about emotional growth as it is about cultural reconnection.

Conclusion-

In the end, this journey is more than a trip; it’s a pilgrimage of sorts. I hope to return with a fuller understanding of who I am and where I come from, carrying with me the memories and lessons learned along the way.  Eritrea will no longer be just a place of stories shared and pictures, but a part of me, deeply etched into heart and soul.

This experience will shape the way I move forward, bridging my past and present, and strengthening the ties that bind me to my heritage. It’s a journey towards wholeness, towards embracing every part of who I am, with gratitude and love.