My meetings with Thiago have come to an end, as well as this semester. I knew it would happen eventually, but how was I to be prepared for the speed at which the end came hurtling at me?
Why, it seems like just yesterday that I was sitting outside 1873, nervously twiddling my thumbs and waiting for a Brazilian to stop by and sweep me off my feet.
It wasn't a date, remember?
Yet, here we are, coming up on the end of the semester. The end of a year. The end of so many things, and the beginning of this end was my last catch up with my one and only Brazilian man.
We're creatures of habit, and decided to meet for our final chat at our favorite booth in 1873.
I arrived early as usual, and Thiago, keeping with his repertoire for making me wait, arrived 15 minutes late. Lucky for him, May makes me nostalgic and I ain't even mad.
We decided to finally break bread together and actually order from 1873. I swiped in for a healthy lunch of chicken tenders and curly fries because the Freshman Fifteen is REAL, people. Thiago bought himself a wrap and we sat down to discuss and divulge our respective lives for the last time.
Like I said, nostalgia is my thing.
Thiago still doesn't exactly know what he is going to do this summer, between going home for a little and potentially finding work at a summer camp here. He still plans on chasing his dream of being a professional photographer and name dropped his company a few times to me. He has enjoyed his year here, and really, that's no surprise because who couldn't. We essentially live in paradise.
We discussed our favorite aspects of TCU's campus. Thiago is a fan of the classic Frog Fountain. Obviously I am too, but I couldn't just agree. I described to him my favorite scenery at this beautiful school.
Well... it's a bit of a hike. You start at the bottom, and ascend. Let me be more specific. My new favorite view here is On Top of the World.
by the world, I mean the stadium.
You have to walk around the inside and marvel at the feats of architecture that went into constructing our mega-stadium, and then ascend the unending stairs at the optimal location. You then have to run up the frozen escalator, and wind around the ramps until you find yourself at the peak. The highest possible point of the establishment, which, as STUFO tours would like me to remind you, is still not as tall as Robert Carr Chapel, but I digress. I would recommend going to this specific spot at 8:14 this week, right as the sun sets in the West. Right before and right after the sun is gone, if you glance to the East you can see the expanse of TCU's beautiful yellow brick illuminated in a purple haze. Beyond that is the captivating skyline of downtown Fort Worth, which reminds you that you're not completely in a bubble. It's the most breathtaking sight, and I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. It puts your place in this world into perspective
I digress. I think I convinced Thiago that it would be a prime spot for some picture taking, at least that was my goal. I'm a sucker for skylines and sunsets, and this view encompasses them both.
Thiago promised me he would try it out, if he could make it to the top. The stairs seemed a bit daunting to him. I believe in him, though. Not only in this aspect, but in his life. He has a good heart, and big dreams. He'll go far.
We finished up our respective meals and shook hands before parting ways for the last time.
As I walked away from 1873 with a full stomach and full heart, I reflected on this semester.
I was given the opportunity to befriend someone from a completely different background, culture, language, and country. I have never been given this chance before, and I loved it. I was tested in small-talk at the beginning, but then I learned to appreciate Thiago for everything he is. His soft smily transcended all cultural boundaries, and a kind hearted laugh sounds the same in every language. I really enjoyed this aspect of the class, and it will be an experience that I will look back on fondly.
So, thanks Dr. W, and thanks Thiago, for never failing to show up, even though I doubted you at the beginning.
The End.
Adios.
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