Stepping back in order to see clearly

I left the comfort of my home, family, friends, and job to a foreign and unfamiliar place. It did not take me long to realize how lonely it can be to be totally and utterly alone. Being away from loved ones helped me realize and appreciate the value of family and friends. Material things hold little value for me. It was hard for me to appreciate new and beautiful things when I was too homesick to enjoy a beautiful hotel room and and all you can eat buffet when I had nobody to share it with. If life is not about learning, experiences and growing then what is it about?