I should be writing my paper....
Instead of writing my paper for now, I feel like I should write something in my journal, as it is the last time Brandon will read it from Asia. I think you should all know that, after travelling myself, I have a lot more respect for him. I think he is incredibly brave for not only leaving all he knew and was comfortable to him, but also going to a place where he knew virtually nobody (except Britnay, of course!). This is a big step, and honestly, it is rather scary, as I will tell you myself. He went to a place that was expensive to call due to the primitive phone systems, and where oftentimes calling was impossible. He also went to a place that was so far away, he lost half a day in trave time! This is what I call brave. When he got there, he made opportunities for himself that nobody can ever take away from him. He played with quite possibly the best gamelan on the island, studied with an incredibly reputable teacher, and headed his own group. How many people can say that? Not only that, he became fluent in a couple of languages while out there, when everybody told him he could not do it and dismissed him. Also, Bran touched the lives of those around him, giving all he could (material and emotional) to whoever he could. It must be frustrating when everyone around you has considerably less than you do. This is a feeling I have ever known. He has a heart of gold, and nobody can ever take away what he has done with his life. So Bran, if anyone ever tells you that you cannot do anything EVER again, you can smile and be content in knowing that they are wrong. You have proved that anything is possible. You did it, all by yourself, and I admire you for that. Have a safe trip home (he leaves about 11:30 AM American time, and 5:30 PM my time on Monday), and I hope that you realize I am proud of you, as everyone else should be. You are the best!