Pre-conceived – an opinion formed without adequate evidence. As I contemplated my journey to Paros, I had a particular “pre-conceived” notion of the landscape aided by Google images. Paros did not disappoint. However, as with many new experiences there exists an element of surprise. In my case, the warmth and openness of the Paros residents was unexpected. While it’s difficult to understand the full gravity of an experience in the moment, one can tell something has changed because unconsciously I too started to be more open without shying away from the new and unknown.
Today, like many other days on Paros, we headed over to the Archeological Institute to continuing editing our group projects. While fixated on my editing program, I suddenly heard a loud, booming voice echoing from downstairs. To my surprise, it was our friend, Markos! During the first week, our group sampled many different restaurants in Paros. One night, we dined at a small place called Noufaro. It is here that we met the waiter, Markos. After taking our individual orders, Marcos periodically sat down and talked with us throughout the night. Whether it was about the details of the trip or our projects, he listened as if he had known us for years. Afterwards, we would pass Markos every so often, we’d chitchat for a bit then go about our daily tasks. These quick chats soon evolved into full-fledged conversations and the next thing we knew, he had invited us into his home with a promise that we could stop by anytime.
Flash-forward to today, seeing Marcos take the time out of his busy schedule to just say hi left me with a euphoric feeling. A seemingly normal day, I now remember more fondly because of the connections I made. As I have now learned, such friendly encounters are commonplace on the island. This very same day, I made another connection with a baker named George. As I waited for my pastry to bake he spoke about his day and how he likes to prepare his food. Tomorrow, I plan to head back and talk to him some more. Slowly, my Chicago wariness is wholly dissipating. Suddenly an island, that I had visited for just over a week, wasn’t so scary anymore. Paros is now more than just a Google image, but rather a place where I’ve met kind and friendly people. Through an extension in the relationships of the people living here, Paros now holds a greater meaning to me. For example, Markos recently explained the origin behind his namesake. He was named after his grandfather, a prisoner of war. Feeling oppressed and wanting to help, he would sneak out of his cell at night to steal food for the other prisoners. They knew he had been there when they found blood and bread at the foot of their prison cells. Markos’ grandfather left such an impression on the people of Paros, they even named a street after him. As I explore and learn, the more my understanding of this experience evolves.
To further accentuate “everyone has a story”, I next met someone incredibly interesting while sea-kayaking. One of our guides, Sofia Mystrioti, participated in the 1998 Winter Olympic games and she’s also a professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Surprisingly, someone with so many accomplishments relaxed with us by the beach like it was just another Friday. From what I’ve seen on Paros, openness in creating relationships is commonplace on the Island. Although, this may seem like a no issue to many, I had some anxiety about what to expect upon my arrival (and that I would miss my connections in Athens)! Now, I’ve no such fears. I have memories and hopefully relationships that will remain for many years. As I have learned, ignore the doubts and revel in the new and the unknown. If you do, your life will be richer.
Written by Jack Salazar