Place

Once upon a time, I had a friend with whom I worked for about a year in the same department. Since working on planning meant dealing with every department, conflicts were bound to arise, and each time, we resolved them like comrades. Even after she left the job, we often met up for dinner, sharing stories. Unlike me, who stayed put like a fixture, she was always working somewhere new every time we met. 🌍

‘Since it’s near Jongno, shall we meet there?’
‘I’m working in Bundang now.’

‘Since you’re working in Bundang, isn’t Yangjae more convenient?’
‘I’m working in Yongin now!’

Unlike me, who viewed change as something to passively accept and cope with, for her, ‘change’ meant actively seeking and choosing opportunities. Her confidence of ‘It’ll work out somehow,’ and her optimistic nature, always intrigued me. While my mind endlessly loops through countless thoughts before returning to square one, she was always a subject of study. She recently started working in Jeju Island. Working in Jeju means not just a job change but also relocating your home, a significant decision. 🏝️

When I went to study in the U.S., I only focused on school-related tasks. Having never moved homes by myself before, I didn’t realize what a big deal it was. ‘A week’s hotel stay should be enough while I find a place, right?’ But finding a home as a foreigner in San Francisco, with no connections, wasn’t easy. Finding a house I liked was tough, and even when I managed to submit applications, no one called back. The demand always exceeded supply, and I was the most uncertain applicant. After much struggle, I found a place, but it wasn’t the end. I had to set up gas, internet, and a bank account, none of which were easy. Service centers endlessly repeated how I was their most valued customer, yet I felt more disregarded than ever. Without prior preparation, being pushed into uncomfortable situations was a stressful and embarrassing experience. Growing up isn’t something defined by age alone. 🌱

Not long ago, on her birthday, we exchanged simple messages, and she suddenly said, ‘I love Jeju so much, I’m planning to stay here for good.’ At first, I thought maybe she wanted to stay longer than planned because she liked it so much, but that wasn’t it.

I’m planning to settle down here!

That’s fundamentally different from deciding to temporarily stay somewhere for a purpose. It’s an adult decision. Although I grew fond of San Francisco once I got used to living there, I never thought about settling down. That option wasn’t even on my list of final decisions. It’s like carrying a heavy load on your back. However, I believe that when she looks back, she’ll consider it one of her coolest life decisions. It’s way cooler than buying a bicycle, investing in stocks, or starting a mediocre YouTube channel. Above all, she’s undoubtedly more of an adult than I am. 🌟