Crying in the Cold: Reflections from a Distant Land

Rocky Mountains

Rocky Mountains

The Weight of Winter

The Western world has a way of slowing you down, especially in winter. Harsh winds, slippery sidewalks, and endless days indoors—it’s a far cry from the warmth and movement of Palestine.

Here, people spend their time shopping or hiding from the cold. Life feels like it’s on pause. In Palestine, even amidst the challenges, life pulses with an ancient energy. The land itself—hard, beautiful, and filled with childhood memories—keeps you moving forward.


The Pull of Nostalgia

Palestine is something you have to distance yourself from to truly understand. When you live there, it’s hard to imagine leaving. The cafés, the forests, the special lake, the low place—all of it becomes part of you. And yet, leaving gives you a new perspective.

But the transition isn’t easy. In the Western world, the streets are cold, and the sidewalks offer no welcome. You write, you think, you cry, and you wonder if you’ll ever find the same sense of belonging you had before.


Lessons in Distance

  1. Embrace the Isolation
    Winter and distance offer time to reflect. Use it to understand what truly matters to you.
  2. Find Beauty in the Ordinary
    Even in the coldest places, there are small joys—hot coffee, a good book, a warm smile.
  3. Hold On to Your Roots
    Nostalgia isn’t a weakness; it’s a reminder of where you’ve come from and what you value.

Moving Forward

Palestine will always be a part of you, but the Western world offers its own lessons. Between the two, there’s a balance—a way to carry your past while embracing your present.


Immigration is a journey of contrasts—balancing the nostalgia of the past with the opportunities of the present. As you navigate this path, remember that every step brings you closer to belonging. Learn more about finding balance in immigration at Holygration.

Note

Information on this site is general and not a substitute for professional immigration advice.

Thumbnail of Wa Alikum Salam

Written by Wa Alikum Salam, Immigrant.

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