its been a really really long time since ive last posted.

too many things have happened since then, top of the list being an enriching learning experience, living and working in India for 10 weeks.

It was certainly a culture shock and i do remember the initial few days where i was distraught and desperate to turn my head and head back home. It was tough taking this path largely alone, like a baby taking its first steps in this foreign land, exploring the world gingerly, tentatively.

In all the trips ive experienced, this is perhaps one of the most defining immersion programme where i can say that ive taken the first big step towards becoming a global citizen.

From the food, culture, nuances, idiosyncracies, language, opinions, everything is different. it also gave me a big lesson on true independence, relying on only yourself and trusting your instincts.

The biggest lessons would be how to handle ambiguity, and how to feel at ease when everyone is staring at me (since i look so different and definitely foreign).

Also, i have learnt not to take things back at home for granted. Un-interrupted electricity and water supply, safe, clean, orderly roads and public transport, diversity of cultures and food, the list goes on.

meanwhile, 4 weeks after, life may have moved back into its familiar rhythm, a part of my heart lies with the friendships ive made in that foreign land.

surprisingly, i still look forward to cny at this age.

the food, the few days of rest, another excuse to hold a gathering, the traditional squeezing through chinatown looking for bargain buys, steamboat reunion dinner, all these are important traditions.

no i do not believe in going abroad to escape the new year.

counting down: 3 weeks to cny! :)