Thoughts of Emily Alexandreta: December 2013

Dear all,

Political frustration aside. This year has started off with somewhat of a bad omen. And, I don’t mean that in a dark, gloomy way. But many of my friends were telling me how this is a bad year for someone who is born in Snake Year (Chinese calendar). To be frank, my family and I are part of the odd thai-chinese family who do not really believe in spirits, goddess and other higher being. I mean I can’t say for all of us, but at least I did not grow up believing that there will be years of guaranteed bad luck just because of the year, I was first born with. The point is, however, I didn’t take it seriously when my friend told me to go to the temple to do this ‘ceremony’ to cleanse my bad lucks. Then I think back, “Hmm, I wonder whether this is really true. What about last time it was a snake year (when I was 12), did anything bad happe…. ?” Then it hit me, the year when I turned 12, I broked my ankles twice (in one year). Hell, yes, two times within six months. So, that’s how I started my 2013 and my (Chinese) New Year in benign panic.

Looking back now, there were not really anything to be panicking about. This year has turned out to be another year I spend learning, growing mentally and professionally with more opportunities to make real life-decision. Though I regret not travelling as much as last year, I am content with my commitment to learn mandarin and simplified chinese. Seriously, it does help with my everyday life here in Hong Kong. Though some serious practices would definitely be beneficial!

I had some serious travelling experience on my trip to Beijing. Short, troublesome, new experience, major weather and airport failure. Nevertheless, an experience, never to be forgotten. I had written an ‘epic failure of Beijing’s trip’ post which I had chosen not to publish, because in fact I did learn a couple of things there. It’s funny looking back at it now. What a trip!

2013 is another year that I have experienced many thing first-hand for the first time. Signed my first apartment contract, looked for new roommates, got a job offer based on no connection (just professional experience.. hopefully), rejected an offer with one of my ideal place to work at, taken a new language class (Mandarin), and many more. More importantly, this year I’ve become more familiar with saying goodbyes to ex-colleagues, friends, family. I really cannot deny the fact that I’ve grown to be no longer scared of saying goodbyes. People come and go in your lives all the time, and if that relationship is well-maintained, there’s always another chance to meet again. ‘See you later!’ That is more common these days. Like my dad told my graduating highschool class of 2007, you never really say goodbye in this hi-tech world. Skypes, facetime, whatsapp.. there are too many things to connect all of us, old friends or new friends. (Not agreeing with that fact that they just solely ‘connected’ us, in too many ironic ways, technology also separates us even though you’re physically close).

All in all, I really don’t think it was such a bad year for me afterall (for Thailand.. I’m not so sure). I shall continue to learn things and move forward in the intended direction. Making more memories with family and friends, old or new… For this holiday, I wish everyone another great holidays, christmas and new year!

Best best for all,

Emily

P.S. Some pictures to sum up the year for you all.

In January: