Searching for elephants with our driver Moto, which we just found out is pronounced Mutu. He never told us we were saying it wrong and we can never change the way we say it now because a driver called Moto is just too perfect.

I’ve been outside of Canada for six months now and I’m still alive. Going into this thing that was my goal – keep breathing and the rest is gravy.

So based on that, this experience so far has been a rousing success. Not that there hasn’t been hiccups along the way.

It’s safe to say that the past six months have been the most uncomfortable of my life. Some of that has been the heat, some has been the budding and the staring, and most has been the upside down, inside out society that I’m now living in. When yes means no and no means no, life gets weird.

The funny thing is that I could also replace the word uncomfortable with exciting. Every day is different. There is no such thing as Groundhog Day in Sri Lanka.

When you have no idea what to expect next in life, you’re constantly on your toes. It’s an uncomfortable, fun way to live. You don’t take anything for granted and you’re never bored. It’s shitty and awesome at the same time.

Six months ago I left Canada looking for a challenge, and I’ve found it and I’m happy.

Having said that, this isn’t where I belong in the long term. This isn’t my home and never will be. I miss my friends and family and the start of the hockey season. Every day I’m reminded of my Canadian-ness and I think that’s a good thing.

To wrap this up, I’m comfortable being uncomfortable for now, but in the long run, I need clean air, ice – and most importantly – to feel like I belong again.

Take it easy.

Shaun

Editor’s note: This post is dedicated to the 2011-12 edition of the Kaiser’s hockey club (a.k.a. Cowzers, Thrashers, Pete Kot Express). May your upcoming season be filled with sausage nights, Stats and at least two uncomfortable moments at team parties. All the best.