The longer we live abroad, the more difficult it makes returning to our native country; financially speaking. It isn't clear to me whether this sentiment is due to growing older or because it is our third international adventure. In total, we've racked-up nearly five years of living away from the United States. What is becoming more clear, is the idea I no longer fit into the American Dream; although I would argue I never really did...dreadlocks for most of my twenties, working seasonal jobs until I was 25 and never a desire for babies [gasp; what kind of woman are you?]. All very un-American Dream-like, right? Although we do contribute to investing in our future, we now earn Mexican pesos; nowhere near enough to even consider retirement, in the U.S. of A, at the ripe ole' age of 65.
I felt more at ease hearing several of my co-workers confess similar sentiments. These feelings, recently, induced while completing our income taxes for Uncle Sam. Yes, we still have to file income taxes [for the rest of our lives]; even as expats.
Does this mean I am forever an expat. No. Besides, I don't believe in the 'f' word. Returning to my country is very possible and I don't feel stuck or helpless where I currently am in my life. The reality is, I'm just a bit unaligned with the idea of needing to work my ass off to keep up with the Joneses. For now, I am more than happy to be keeping up with the Gonzalezes, here in Mexico.
Besides, the best part of this adventure; called Life, is not knowing what the future holds. Keeps ya on your toes and makes your days more interesting.
Besides, the best part of this adventure; called Life, is not knowing what the future holds. Keeps ya on your toes and makes your days more interesting.
