Glimpse of light

Saturday, 8 November 2014

There are some days where I feel like the coldest day in January; lost, confused, almost comatose. But there are some days where I've got the whole world in my hands. At least I try to convince myself that I do. 

Lately, I've been convinced towards different directions of my career. At this point of my life, I could do a little extra to learn more. Thankfully, I stood firm in order to achieve one of my goals next year. It was neither easy to decline the pleasantly helpful headhunter, nor reject a copy writing job offer. 

I choose to believe that if we have dreams, we should stick to it and work our way towards it. Perhaps I might sound frail if I admit that life isn't easy and always goes as planned. But I rather share about what happens when you are about to step into the working world. 

It is okay to feel a little lost after you graduate. Trust me, I was terrified and had no idea what lies ahead of me. But in that way, you'll have something more to search for. It is okay to not know what to expect in life, because sometimes it goes entirely different from what you've planned. And sometimes, you'll end up somewhere better.

Ever since I had my first performance or competition (I can't remember which came first), my ever so wise dad told me to just go with the flow. Que sera sera, whatever will be will be. Unlike many stereotypical judgements on Asian parents, my parents have high expectations on me, but they don't beat me down when I failed to hit the bullseye. 

Here are some of the wise words on top of my head:

"Go step by step. There's no need to rush. Always do your best and stand firmly in what you believe." - Dad

"It doesn't matter what other's think of you. It only matters what you think of yourself. Because in the end, no one is going to live your life for you." - Mom

"We may have many dreams and goals, but we have only one family. I'm going to look after them before achieving something that I want." - Kitty Fong

"Sometimes, we need to get out of our comfort zone. I'm sure it's a hell roller coaster ride out there, but we should learn to take risks." - Siang

"There are times where difficult circumstances will change you into a different person. Sometimes, you just have to accept that you have no choice." - Kimchy

I'm always grateful to have family and friends that I can learn a lot from. At times, I have to give myself some time just to process their thoughts. It is moments like that I'm thankful that I have a space to write. 

After years of learning the lessons, here's my very own opinion to my dear friends out there:

Before you achieve, empty yourself. Take a step back and look around you. In our world, we are shaped to grow into a life where we should graduate university, get a job, a car, then a place to live. Later on, we'll get expectations about getting married, having kids, and the circle begins again.

What is all that about? Expectations. Expectations. Expectations.

Expectations may not be all bad. They are helpful in reminding us if we are going off track. However, they could be life-wrecking for those who beat themselves down easily. 

Always remember that whatever I've said above is only one path of life. Why fill your mind with one path when there are so many to choose from? As I grow, I have more goals, but lesser expectations. I move slower, but I notice more. I choose not to be a subject of competition among my relatives or friends. I choose to build my own path and open my mind other possibilities.
Wow, I can't believe that I'm going round and round about this. But I hope this could help at least a handful of you. I'm very honored when some of you turn to me at your times of difficulty. And whenever I can, I will always try my best to give my you my 2 cents.


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