As I sit here in Armenia, preparing to leave after two unforgettable months, I can’t help but think about you and the day you might make this journey yourselves. This was my first time in Armenia, and I came here alone, without family, not knowing exactly what to expect. But now, as I prepare to say goodbye, I want to share with you what this experience has meant to me and what I hope it will mean to you one day.
From the moment I arrived, I was embraced by a sense of belonging that I had never felt before. It’s as if the very soil beneath my feet recognized me, welcoming me back after all these years.
Coming to Armenia has been more than just a trip — it has been a homecoming. This land, the birthplace of our ancestors, carries a weight of history and emotion that is hard to put into words. I remember stepping off the plane, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness, unsure of what I would find. But from the moment I arrived, I was embraced by a sense of belonging that I had never felt before. It’s as if the very soil beneath my feet recognized me, welcoming me back after all these years.
Armenia is a place where the past and present exist side by side. Walking through the streets of Yerevan, I was struck by the contrasts — the ancient churches standing tall next to modern buildings, the hustle and bustle of city life set against the backdrop of majestic mountains. It’s a country that has endured so much, yet it remains vibrant and full of life. Every corner of this land has a story to tell, and I’ve spent these two months listening, learning and absorbing as much as I can.
But it wasn’t just the history and the beauty of the landscape that touched me — it was the people. The locals here have warmth and generosity that are unlike anything I’ve experienced before. Even though I came here without my family, I never felt alone. The people of Armenia took me in and shared their stories, their food and their lives with me. They made me feel like I was part of something much bigger than myself — a community, a family that spans generations and borders.
There were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the weight of it all, by the realization that I was walking in the footsteps of our ancestors, in the land where they lived, loved and fought to survive. But those moments also filled me with a deep sense of pride and responsibility. Being here has reminded me of where we come from and the strength and resilience that are a part of who we are.
When you eventually come to Armenia, I hope you will experience the same sense of connection that I did. I hope you will feel the weight of our history, but also the joy of being in a place that is so full of life and potential. Take the time to explore, to learn and to meet the people who make this country what it is. Let them show you the beauty of our culture, the richness of our traditions and the warmth of their hearts.
Know that you are not just visiting a foreign land — you are coming home. This is where our family’s story began, and it is a part of who you are. I hope that your time in Armenia will help you understand and appreciate the legacy that has been passed down to you and that it will inspire you to carry it forward.
When you make this journey, I hope you do so with the mentality of giving back rather than receiving. Too often, we approach life with the question, “What can I get from this experience?” instead of asking, “What can I give?” I want you to come to Armenia with a spirit of service, thinking about what you can do for this land and its people, rather than what Armenia can do for you. This is not just a trip or a vacation; it’s an opportunity to contribute to the country that has given us so much. Whether it’s through volunteering, sharing your skills or simply being present and open to the experiences that come your way, I hope you make it a journey of giving and connecting with your roots in a meaningful way.
As I prepare to leave, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for everything that Armenia has given me. It has been a journey of discovery, not just of this land, but of myself and my place in the world. While I may be leaving, a part of me will always remain here, in the mountains, the streets and the hearts of the people I met.
I can’t wait for the day when you make this journey yourselves. When you do, know that you are continuing a tradition that is as old as the hills of Armenia. Just as I have, I hope you will carry the love and memories of this place with you wherever you go.
With all my love,
Emily
Emily Sardaryan
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Your words were so deep and emotional. Your description of Armenian resonated with me. I applaud you. good job.