SPAIN

Day II

Manzanares, Spain

“Lover’s Spit”- Broken Social Scene
“Halfway Home”- Tv on the Radio

Dear Friend,
I woke up today in a warm bed in my best friend’s apartment in Spain. Yesterday, shortly after arriving in Madrid, I felt the dread that one experiences when they see how completely insignificant they are in the entire scheme of the universe. I. Felt. So. Small. Once going through “customs” (which was just 4 police officers glancing at me), I walked through the gate to go out and meet Ricky. He was no where to be found.

I stuck by the girls that I had made friends with on the plane. They were studying abroad, liked LOST, and were equally as giddy as I was. Oh yeah- they also spoke Spanish. This is a talent that, unfortunately, I lack. I hung out with them for a good 15 minutes, when I was sending them off to a good semester, and looking forward at my situation: No phone, No friend, NOT bilingual, No Cash.

No cash?

That’s what I’d take care of first. Initially, I went to the ATM and took out 110 Euros (I didn’t put a currency sign next to the number because I still don’t know how to do it). After being denied access to the internet, and telling a couple people that I did NOT want a phone card, I began to feel the tear ducts being irritated.

“No fucking way.”, I told myself, “If ever I will be brave, it will be right now.”

I walked towards the coffee shop to find more internet. My head held high, I felt the surge of energy come through me and I felt in control. I will do this.

Just as this realization came to me, I saw Ricky rushing around the corner. I dropped my things and we had a very long hug. Although I wish that he had been there sooner, the feeling of hopelessness in another country was something that I needed.
We went to Guernica first. I can’t really spend time describing all of the things that I saw in the museum right now, but it was this shot of inspiration that I haven’t experienced in such a long time. It was needed, it was beautiful, and it was with my best friend.

All of Ricky’s roommates are very very friendly and welcoming towards me. The one who Ricky said was an asshole at the start turned out to be a really great guy, and all of them have made me feel extremely welcome. I am blessed.


“Manza- hell hole. where all the dreams die. I return to you.” -Chopi


Mental Note: Return to song idea “I Will Wake Up”
Mental Note: Close with “I want you” by the beatles at an Eastern Sea show IN IT’S ENTIRETY


Bueno,
-Andy


Also!
http://gizmodo.com/5448657/inaked-application-for-iphone-could-bring-world-peace


Also (Also)!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezrvxYmSGNs