I’ve learned to stop labelling, to make things relative. I’ve learned that you’re not the only one supposed to win, but you need to let the other one win as well; and that you need to think in perspective. I’ve learned you cannot accomplish anything on your own.
I have learned to get better every day but also accept more easily that I cannot be perfect. […] I have learned to be strategic on the long term. When I was in Romania, the plans were always short-term, while now I think as far as the next generation.
I have adopted much from the Dutch. Now, I’m a mix of Romanian and Dutch but I’d like to believe that I have not lost the Romanian fondness and spirit.
The Dutch world has taught me, above all, that today is the most important day of my life, and that I should cherish it in all its splendour, especially as it draws to a close.
… this is an experience I would recommend to anyone: live abroad for a while. After a couple of months of interaction with people from another culture, you start to learn a lot more, also about your own culture.
… most part of my life happened in the Netherlands: getting married, giving birth to two girls – Irina and Maria, leading a professional life who has brought so many satisfactions, my retirement and becoming a grandmother. I can say I have a fulfilled life.
Copyright Noi Rădăcini – ©
