

Finding Home in a New Place
Mason reflects on finding comfort and connection in a new country: sharing how injury gave him unexpected time to explore Belgium, learn the local rhythm, and discover a peaceful spot by the water that feels like home.
A Walk Around Hasselt

Being adaptable and open to whatever situation I’m in has helped me a lot. It’s taken me places I never thought I’d go and introduced me to people I never thought I’d meet. Over time, through a lot of ups and downs, I’ve learned how to zoom out and see the bigger picture. That shift in perspective has helped me understand things better and appreciate different points of view.
Here in Belgium, the lifestyle is different. The culture is different. I’ve been excited to dive in. Learn a little of the language, eat like they do, and figure out the daily stuff like groceries, doctor visits, and getting around town. My mom always says everything happens for a reason. And while I didn’t want to be injured, it’s given me the chance to see parts of Belgium I probably wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
I’ve learned how the hospital system works here, how to navigate the legal side of things like getting a visa, and even how to shop for groceries in a new country. It’s cool to experience life from a different angle and appreciate how things work in other parts of the world.
For me, one of the best parts has been finding a little piece of home here near the water. It’s peaceful, and it reminds me that no matter where you are, you can always find something familiar if you’re open to it.
Here in Belgium, the lifestyle is different. The culture is different. I’ve been excited to dive in. Learn a little of the language, eat like they do, and figure out the daily stuff like groceries, doctor visits, and getting around town. My mom always says everything happens for a reason. And while I didn’t want to be injured, it’s given me the chance to see parts of Belgium I probably wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
I’ve learned how the hospital system works here, how to navigate the legal side of things like getting a visa, and even how to shop for groceries in a new country. It’s cool to experience life from a different angle and appreciate how things work in other parts of the world.
For me, one of the best parts has been finding a little piece of home here near the water. It’s peaceful, and it reminds me that no matter where you are, you can always find something familiar if you’re open to it.






