36. Plan a ravishing party

Once I decided to make the move back to the United States after almost a decade in Asia, I wanted to throw a ravishing party. I had never thrown a big party before and another part of me didn’t want to make multiple get-togethers to say goodbye to everyone I knew. To my convenience, I wanted to host a single event where everyone that I knew in Korea could come enjoy their time and say good bye to me. So, I rented out a small underground club in Itaewon and sent out invites through Facebook. There were no expectations for the party and I wasn’t going to be disappointed if only a few showed up. I secretly wanted to test myself and see how many people would set aside their busy weekend for me. To my surprise, over 300 people showed up throughout the course of the night and many came with gifts and hand-written cards! This party was more than just a party for me, it was evidence that I had made great relationships during my stay and that I was loved and appreciated by many of those I encountered throughout the 8 years I lived there. This party was not only evidence of this, but it was also an encouragement. I was encouraged to be brighter, friendlier, outreaching, outgoing, inviting, welcoming, and whatever else I could be to make a positive impact in the people I encounter no matter where I was in the world.