A new decade is here...

Choppy waters or the safety of the shore?

At the Fisherman's Wharf at Monterey; Oct 2019

It's the first day of 2020 and a new decade, and naturally a day for reflection at the decade past and reckoning about what lies ahead. The 2010s were significant and memorable years with many important life events: the PhD degree, tying the knot, and a new beginning in a land far away from home. As expected, there were highs and there were also extreme lows. There were losses and there were lessons and often a perilous tight rope. Uncharted territories and brand new challenges. Many causes for despair and also for hope. And regrets.

No life is lead, no pursuit followed, in vacuum. My life experiences and my journey has of course been shaped by the world and the people around me. And the past decade has been rough, in very many ways. For the planet, for humanity and particularly for many specific groups. We've likely moved many steps closer to a murky and dangerous future.

Yet, as I look back, the scales are slightly tipped towards contentment as I finally feel that I know who I am and what really matters to me. I understand a wee bit more about the complex world and my place in it.

Many of challenges will continue and in fact, there will be brand new ones. This will definitely be a year of uncharted waters. Significant decisions, that are possibly irreversible. Hopefully there will be a lot of good times and precious memories as well. Here's to welcoming the new year with a tepid mix of anticipation and nervousness. And more importantly, with renewed hope!

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