Concluding thoughts to 2010

It's ironic that I'm writing my concluding thoughts in the midst of the most exciting part of 2010 - my graduation trip. Nonetheless, it is December.

2010 has been an interesting year for me. Brought me back to places I was previously at, took me through milestones, taught me new lessons, and showed me who I am and can be.

The year started with me going back to school. Two very dreadful semesters, made even more dreadful by the fact that I needed to complete six modules in each. I'm glad to report that I did not see the same downward spiral like the last time I was in school. Life is such, you make mistakes, you live with them and make them work.

Changing church was one of the most difficult decisions of my life. It was a painful but necessary, right and resolute decision I needed to make. Coping with emotional turmoil, ostracism and a new environment was not easy. I'm glad I chose as I did. But I must admit I still find myself in a difficult place - caught in between being an outcast in the old environment, and the fear of engaging with the new environment is far from easy and far from over.

The middle of the year took me back to Shanghai - a city I love. It reminded me of the amazing potential within China. It was a wonderful time of the year as friends came to visit - Jo, Darian, Victor, Aven, and my parents came separately!

Working with Millward Brown in Shanghai opened my eyes to the possibility of working in marketing research in future. With an amazing work environment, possibilities for growth and development, a job I will enjoy, I decided to take up a position with Millward Brown Singapore after graduation.

Well, I have finally finished school! It's surreal. So so surreal. A part of me really cannot believe I survived NUS. To date, it remains my biggest and only regret in this life. If I were to end this life with only this one regret, I would say I lived a full life. Anyhows, I'm really looking forward to the next phase of my life.

As I look back, I'm grateful for so many things and so many people. My parents for providing for me for close to 25 years, and who are still allowing me to live rent-free next year (although a part of me really wishes to move out). My brothers and cousins who are always there when I need them. My best friends Darian, whom come January I would have known for 12 years and we're still tight as ever; and Sebastian, who knows me so well and has a knack for putting everything in its place. The girls Charmian, Xiu and Jo who are always encouraging and reassuring, giving me the perspective I need. The few friends I took out of City Harvest, in particular Dorothea, Hadi, Cleo and Rio, as well as my cell group members who have become my friends, in particular, Shawn, Kee Meng and Benn who show me love and acceptance despite my "betrayal", that tells me our friendship can transcend religious-boundaries. My Pastor, Chee Kiang and his family, with whom I had the privilege of going through a difficult year with. My school friends who make school life that much more bearable. My friends and colleagues in Shanghai, who made me feel so at home in a foreign city.

Most of all, my Lord Jesus Christ. I used to use religion as a form of escape. Now I've escaped from religion, back into His arms. I used to spend several hours a day on ministry, now I spend two hours a week attending church service, but feel His love all the time. Without Him, I'm quite screwed.

With each passing year, we get stronger, wiser and hopefully, closer to our goals and dreams. May 2011 be wonderful for everyone.

BoltBus from Washington DC to New York, 11 Dec 2010
Hostelling International Boston, 17 Dec 2010