I saw a funny TV segment the other day. A hamster is sitting in a box—a fluffy little ball, cheeks stuffed (probably with nuts :))—thinking something like: "Maybe I should jump over the wall? What if there's a whole different world over THERE? And hamsters just like me—kind and sweet! We'll sing songs together!"

And so he gets ready to "jump"; he climbs, stretches his paws—it's hilarious :)! He falls. "But what if those hamsters aren't kind at all? They might give me a real beating! I'd better stay home, plus there are nuts here..." And the hamster stayed in his box.

So, what was I talking about?.. Oh, right! We are all afraid of change. Before taking a step, a person runs a bunch of questions through their head: "Is it worth it? How will things turn out for me? What if something goes wrong?" This fear is, of course, understandable. But how often do we miss our lucky chance precisely because of the fear of the unknown—after all, you never know where it's waiting for you.

For example, I am very glad that I decided on such an adventure as traveling to America on my own. I brought back a sea of positive, vivid impressions to Russia (well, and a couple of suitcases of clothes :)). To those who are afraid they won't be able to find a job, I can say that all these fears are GROUNDLESS. If there is a will, as they say. In general, the most amazing feeling I remember from my American life is the feeling of absolute freedom and confidence from realizing that you are on your own! Everything is in your hands—you earn it yourself (how much is also up to you), you spend it yourself. Whatever anyone says, this is an experience, and a useful one at that, especially for those who haven't yet fledged and are just starting to live away from their parents. So, friends, the time will come to fall out of the family nest and spread your wings! And such a trip can be your first step! So go for it, don't be afraid to look beyond the horizon—there's a lot of interesting stuff there, I know that for sure now!