It's been about a year since I returned from HK. Have been meaning to add entries to the blog. There were SO MANY things that we did together to check off those bucket list items the last month I was in HK. Maybe it'll take another year to add those entries! haha. Here I am, in the middle of chatting with Nat on Whatsapp, and I come across this:
It's a pretty wonderful experience making new friends in a foreign land. I am particularly grateful for people who have gone out of their way to be nice to me. They are all busy with their lives and their work and their friends. It makes me smile thinking about all the extra bits of kindness and generosity I've received. Sure, there have been (quite a few) moments I've wanted to get on a plane and leave. Really wanted to. But there is no growth without some discomfort in life.
So I've had to rely on the kindness and generosity of new friends to help me get through the tough and tougher moments. I've come to see that it's not enough to be a generous person; it is just as important to know how to be gracious when receiving the kindness and generosity of others. It is hard for me to ask for and receive help. Part of it is wanting to be independent and prove to myself (and the world) that I really am capable. And maybe even fearless. Hahaha.
Starting fifth grade in the US was the last time I showed up at a place not knowing anyone my age. What's different now, 25 years later, is that I am more "open" to rejection. Haha. I don't remember the last time I've had to literally start from scratch. The old me would be anxious about not being likable enough or doing a lot of things to show someone how much I'd like to be his/her friend. I don't know if it's because I'm so busy with work or adjusting to a new life...but I've been pretty easy-going about making friends. Hahahaha. Me, easy-going. But yeah. I am not so concerned about whether someone likes me as much. I also find myself more open to the possibility of making connections with people I didn't think I had anything in common with. It goes back to not overthinking things. Just do it. Just say hi. What's the worst that can happen? He/she doesn't say hi back? lol. Big deal. I'm leaving in...oh, 10 months and 10 days anyway.
It's all about attitude. Finding the humor in life. Trying something new. Cutting myself some slack. Looking at the world through a different lens. Considering the road less traveled.
