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Armenia is my Home – U. Claudia Boyajian

Armenia; a beautiful country, in every sense of the word. A place full of the most breathtaking views, rich culture and the most genuine people I have ever met. Coming to Armenia has always been a dream of mine and now that I have lived here for about a month and a half, this dream has finally become a reality. It’s difficult to put into words the feeling I’ve had inside of me the second that plane landed and how truly unique this country of ours is.

In my eyes, Armenia is; an outburst of applause and bright smiles as our plane lands in the motherland. Living in a village for a weekend with the most loving and welcoming people who give us everything they have, even when they have nothing. Eating orovatz at least twice a week.  Hoping into a taxi even though the driver has no idea where he’s going, but figuring it out together. Seeing the kids of Gogaran sprint to our bus upon our arrival. Visiting dozens of churches, all unique and beautiful in their own way. Stopping at our bus driver’s friend’s house for sourj on the way home from an excursion. Stray cats and dogs roaming the streets. Hiking up a mountain for hours on end no matter how difficult it may be because in the end you know there is a breathtaking view that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Dancing the qochari at the top of Mt. Aragats. The most heartfelt kenatsner you’ll ever hear. Listening to the stories of Armenians from around the world explain why moving to Armenia was the greatest decision of their lives. Having to get out of the car so our bus driver can fill the gas tank. Being told by our host families to come back and stay with them anytime we want. Young kids playing outside and roaming the streets, without a worry in the world. Eating fresh fruit off the side of the road. Stopping the bus so a herd of sheep blocking the road can cross. Hundreds of people protesting the price hike of bus fares. Looking straight out at enemy territory from the front lines. Walking out of every single restaurant satisfied. Knocking on a complete stranger’s door with a bottle of wine and being welcomed in with open arms. Seeing the whole village of Chin Chin gathered together, waiting for our arrival. Listening to families tell us how happy and proud they are of us for coming to Armenia and for giving them the opportunity to meet us. Continually being fed no matter how full we may be. Meeting the soldiers who risk their lives and everything they have, to protect our people and this beautiful homeland of ours. Looking out at Mount Ararat and Masis in complete silence.

I can go on and on, but in my eyes the one thing Armenia is and always will be, is my home. A place I truly feel a part of in every single thing I do. There is nothing in this world I am more blessed and proud of than to be from this country. This has truly been the experience of a lifetime, an experience I couldn’t find any other place in the world.