Saturday, January 13, 2024

Reflecting on 2023: A Year of Unfinished Resolutions and Unexpected Joys

As the clock strikes midnight, bidding farewell to 2023, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of thoughts, wondering where the year disappeared to. It feels like just yesterday that I was enthusiastically setting resolutions, promising myself that this year would be different. Yet, here I am, grappling with the reality that many of those goals remain untouched, buried under the fast-paced flow of time.

The ambitious list I crafted for 2023 seemed like a roadmap to personal growth and achievement. However, as the months unfolded, my attention veered towards unexpected diversions. Chinese dramas and anime became my solace, transporting me to worlds far beyond the confines of reality. Weekends that were earmarked for self-improvement and diligent work toward resolutions often succumbed to the allure of captivating storylines and fictional realms.

Amidst the unmet expectations, a silver lining emerged – the joy of spending quality time with friends during the birthday meetup and festive season of Christmas. While my resolutions took a back seat, the warmth of companionship and the laughter shared over dinner became the highlights of the year. It was in these moments that I discovered the importance of connection and the irreplaceable value of genuine human interactions.

Yet, amidst the haze of unfulfilled resolutions, one aspect of my year stands out like a beacon of accomplishment – my involvement in volunteering for National Parks on beach patrols. The decision to dedicate my time to preserving the natural beauty of our coastal areas brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Patroling the shores and contributing to environmental conservation became a source of pride and a reminder that meaningful achievements often lie in unexpected corners. Helping to build awareness, educate, and increase the appreciation of marine creatures. Especially when I was awarded outstanding volunteer during the year-end volunteer appreciation day.

As I embark on a new year, I carry with me the lessons of 2023 – the realization that life's path may not always align with our meticulously crafted plans, but in the detours, we find unexpected treasures. While resolutions may have taken a back seat, the journey itself has been filled with valuable experiences, personal connections, and the satisfaction of making a positive impact through volunteering. Perhaps, in the ebb and flow of life, resolutions are meant to be flexible guides, allowing room for spontaneity, growth, and the discovery of unforeseen joys.

Cherishing my health and staying happy is the minimum and most essential part that I hope to accomplish for the new year's resolutions and many years to come.
#Intertidal # Marine creature #Community awareness #Beach

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