2025/Marie-

The sun illuminates the roadway, casting sharp shadows on a cold Pompeii morning. The kind where although the air was brisk, the sun hung lazily in the sky, bathing everything in a harsh, relentless light. I followed a path, an uneven pavement arranged with basalt stones; marked by grooves left by ancient chariot wheels. The crisp air carried hints of fresh citrus from a nearby fruit stand, mingling with the earthy scent of ancient stone. The atmosphere was still with the occasional chattering of tourists and calls of tour guides—a unique blend of languages and cultures around the world met in this historical place.

Moments like these reminded me of how my life is shaped by movement, adaptability, and exposure to cultures that are different from my own. As a military child, I have had the privilege of traveling to places others dream of, witnessing not only the beauty of the world but also its raw realities. With every move, I gain a deeper understanding of history, the interconnectedness of people, and the cultural heritage that shapes societies.

Walking through the streets of Pompeii, I felt the weight of history beneath my feet and through my fingertips as I traced the ridges of ancient walls. The ruins stood as a testament to a city frozen in time, offering me to imagine how Roman life must have been before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. I recall standing, behind the railing, in front of a preserved kitchen, admiring the stone countertops and ovens where bread was once baked. Later on the tour, we passed through an archway, and the grand amphitheater was there. The guide explained how this place used to echo with ancient spectacles. It was in those moments that I recognized the immense privilege I had—to not only read about history but to experience it.

Growing up in a military family, I have learned that travel is more than a change of scenery; it is an education in itself. Before moving to Okinawa, I was stationed in Germany, centrally located in Europe. The convenience of the location really shined when my family realized how convenient and easy it was to travel around Europe using military affiliated RTT tours. During the three years there, I was really able to see the remnants of war throughout European museums and memorials, the artistic triumphs displayed in galleries, and the quiet perseverance of people rebuilding their communities. Every place I have lived or visited has left an imprint on me, shaping my world view. I have learned that culture is not something that can be fully understood from screens alone—it must be felt, tasted, and experienced in daily life.

Alongside all the beauty, I have also seen the struggles that exist across borders. I have witnessed poverty in its many forms, from the quiet desperation of a struggling street vendor to a child playing in an alleyway, not put off by hardship. These experiences deepened my appreciation for my family, my friends, my privileges, and the responsibilities that come with them. Growing up, my parents have given me a front-row seat to both the wonders and the challenges of the world, inspiring a motive to not only witness but to engage meaningfully.

Being a military child has given me more than just stamps in a passport; it has given me a lifelong curiosity, a deep respect for diversity, and an understanding of our complex world. I do not take these experiences for granted. Instead, I see them as an invitation—to keep moving forward, to seek knowledge, and to embrace the vast, intricate world that I have been fortunate enough to explore.