It is four and a half hours until New Year in the time zone that I am in. It would be less than that when I finish this entry. I feel compelled to type up a blogpost to wrap up the year that has been. My conciliatory way of bidding the year farewell and coming to terms with how and why things turned out the way they did.
I could not be any more ecstatic with where I am right now. Hong Kong – the Asian counterpart of the city that never sleeps. A year ago, the idea of me moving to another country wasn’t one that I entertained. I was set to apply for my Canadian citizenship this year until new laws were implemented and I had to wait a little longer. That was fine, I thought. I had nowhere else to be anyway. But then I’m here now. An expat in a strange new country so geographically close to home, yet so different culturally. I live by myself and don’t know anyone except for my co-workers, but it surprises me that I am so at peace with that. I guess at twenty-six, I have learned to be patient, to not rush and to generally just calm the fuck down when the tides seem high. I’ll find footing soon enough.
I have had my share of love and misadventures and I do not regret any of it. Putting myself out there was a risk worth taking because I ended up discovering a few more things about myself. I am no longer afraid to venture into that inexplicable phenomenon they call dating and I am excited to welcome the New Year with high hopes of finding new friendships, and quite possibly, new love.
But what I’m really most thankful for is the fact that all throughout the year, I have been surrounded by just the most amazing people. I must be doing something right because I tend to gravitate towards people who exude positivity in their lives and influence me in such a way that I feel the need to strive to be a better person each day. Each one deserves a shout out but I would like to mention a few who have meant so much to me this year.
To Rean. For tolerating my crazy. You are hands down one of the best roommates I’ve ever had. I miss you but see you soon.
To Sam, my favorite Chinese friend, a kind soul. We talked about how we think our lives are going nowhere but in truth, we are in a much better place than most. There is no need to feel restless. It may be a cliché but everything will fall into place at the right time.
To Jen, Roger and Matt. For the driving lessons, for the spontaneous trips, for just being a great bunch to hang out with. Cheers.
To Kuya Rodel and Ate Monet. For making me part of your family. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there to fulfill my godmother duties to Kean in the next two years but I’m sure he’ll grow up as a great kid. Wish you both well.
To JM. For being a voice of reason when reason escapes me. LKF soon betch!
To Tina. For just being there even though it takes you eons to respond at times. Haha. You are one of my most trusted friends but I’m sure you already know that.
To Majo. For reconnecting. It means a lot to me that we did.
To Kristine. For being the tamer version of me. You are a great person, and inspiring in a lot of ways. I hope you find the kind of love you deserve.
To Sabrina and Onson. For being a great couple worthy of being my #relationshipgoal. Super excited for you as you welcome Baby Sophia in the New Year to come.
To my long-time best friends Dann, Chiara and Vane. For being my best stress-reliever. We have come a long way but I’m glad our friendship never waned. If anything, it has just become stronger than ever. I think that we are set to be friends for life because there is no way in hell we’re ever breaking up after all those cringe-worthy throwback photos made their way into our group chat. The risk of blackmail is high.
To my family. It goes without saying. I love you and I hope to spend more time with you now that I live relatively closer.
I may be spending the New Year alone, but I’ll be celebrating in my own little way. I’ll enjoy this moment to be grateful for the year that has passed. A most eventful one to say the least. I would say being in solitude is the most fitting way for me to end the year.
So I guess that’s a wrap. Happiest New Year to all!