A New Chapter: How Spain Reminded Me What It Means to Live Fully

When I booked my trip to Spain, I didn’t realize it would lead me to someone who would feel like family — someone I never knew I needed. From the moment she picked me up at the airport in Barcelona, there was an instant connection. She quickly became like the older sister I never had — grounded, wise, full of laughter and warmth. Soon after, I met her cousin, and somehow, the three of us clicked effortlessly, as if we had known each other for years.

The days that followed were filled with long walks along the beach, café conversations that lingered for hours, and late nights spent sharing dreams and stories. Barcelona showed me a different rhythm of life — one that’s more present, more intentional, and beautifully alive. There’s something about the way people in Spain live — they pause, they feel, they connect.

Before I left, I was invited to come back, not as a visitor this time, but to live there for a while. That invitation stirred something deep within me. My life in the U.S. is wonderful — I have built a fulfilling career, and I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved. But even with all of that, I’ve been craving change. After my divorce, I’ve had to hit the reset button on my life more times than I can count. Some decisions came with tears and fear, while others were made with joy and certainty.

This one feels like both, the fear of letting go and the joy of stepping into something new.

The idea of moving to Spain brings back memories from my late teens and early twenties, when I lived in France for a while. There’s a similar feeling of freedom and curiosity this time — but now, there’s also gratitude. Gratitude for the company, the new family I’ve found, and the reminder that home isn’t always a place. Sometimes, it’s people.

And maybe that’s why this decision feels right. Because if not now, then when?

If you’re someone who’s worked hard to build a life on your own, who can afford to take a risk and follow your curiosity, then you don’t owe anyone an explanation. You owe yourself a chance.

So here’s what I’ve learned: time doesn’t wait. There’s no “maybe next year.” Life moves, with or without us. Whatever it is that’s been tugging at your heart, do it. Move, start, love, rebuild, explore. You deserve to take that leap.

Because sometimes, the version of yourself you’ve never met is waiting for you on the other side of fear, maybe in a different country, maybe in a new friendship, maybe in a life you haven’t dared to live yet.