(PART I)
I flew over the green fields and pretty red houses. As I looked down below, it all seemed so new. With a sigh I put earphones over my ears and listened to the music of U2 in desperate hope to calm myself. I closed my eyes. My stomach was in twists and I kept thinking I must have made a mistake by coming here. Images of all those moments I had left behind played in my mind torturing my thoughts. My heart raced and in a desperate attempt, I concentrated on the music….’with or without you…’.
I slowly opened my eyes, half hoping that I would be back to those familiar sights, sounds and smells that I was so accustomed to. But all I could see, was the back of the seat staring grimly back at me. The signals flashed to fasten the seat belts. I looked outside the window again. As the plane drew closer to my destination I knew it was too late to go back. I put my seat belt on and held the handles tightly as the plane rapidly descended.
The airport was so big, it all looked so clean. The plane started to slow down and with it the sweet feeling of adventure took over me. As we turned into the bay, a Qantas plane was parked next to us. The red kangaroo reminded me that I was back.
When the plane stopped, everyone stood up and made their way to the exit. I hesitated for a few minutes still apprehensive. But, my heart was beating with excitement and I quickly gathered my bag. I walked steadily behind the group of people. As I made my way to the immigration area, I heard those familiar sounds that I had long forgotten.
‘Welcome to Australia’, the officer at the immigration desk said. I looked up in a daze and gave the lady my passport. She stamped the passport and within a few minutes I made my way outside.
