Week 16: Once upon a time...

This week has been one of my toughest weeks in Malta so far! Living so far away from my family and friends has made me really value their place in my life and the support they have always provided me with. One of the drawbacks of living in another country is that I can’t participate in major life events and even normal daily events with them. I have found this particularly hard this week as I haven’t been able to be there in person for someone going through a tough situation. Skype is such a great invention and I have really appreciated during my time here in Malta, however it is just not the same as being there with the actual person, which is also not helped by poor Wi-Fi reception!

Enjoying a study break to do some shopping in Sliema!

I have also been really busy with 11 assignments to do within the next month, trying to ensure I get them all done before visitors arrive so we are able to spend time with them. Our classes have all started to finish up, with our last class ever in Malta to be held this Thursday! This has made it really hit home that my time in Malta is almost up now with just 4 weeks to go! Time has really flown in since being here in Malta, it doesn't feel that long ago since I wrote my first blog entry! MacKay is true when he says “Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back.” This week has made me reflect on the preciousness of time and the importance in how you spend it as Psalm chapter 90, verse 12 states “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom,” therefore we are not to waste our days away but to make the most of them, making time to participate in events which we will grow and develop in as a person and making time for things and people we value in our lives. Althsuler shows us how we are the directors of our time as in his quote he states, “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.” Erasmus is a great opportunity which provides you with so many opportunities. It has allowed me to develop as an individual opening me up to new ideas, different ways of living, providing me with situations which have either re-affirmed or made me think about the beliefs and values I hold, aided me to identify my strengths and weaknesses as a person and letting me gain and improve in many new and different life skills. I am so glad I have had the opportunity to participate in Erasmus and although I can’t say I've made the most of all the time I have spent here in Malta, my Erasmus experience has definitely been time well spent!

My cooking skills have definitely improved
from baked potatoes, beans and cheese!

Meeting lots of new people!

Our walk to school today!

When it rains in Malta it floods!