08 May 2008

Reflections before a journey


I left the office for the last time. It has been over one and a half years since I started being involved in that job, at first a lowly assistant, and more recently a coordinator. I know, leaving that door, that I had nothing to be concerned about, because I did the best I could to the very best of my abilities, and I have nothing to regret, nothing to ponder on. I could just leave the office, and that job, and leave.

And I am moving on. In the past weeks I have been really travelling a lot and to far away places. Now, it seems I will be going even further, not just because I am flying back home to Taiwan to surprise my mum, but also because I have been selected to attend this prestigious summer course in Spain in July and August, and straight after that I will be flying off to Canada to begin a new life. Travel, travel, it seems I am really moving and going places.

Sometimes things are happening so fast and all at once, I wish time would stop a bit for me to reflect. On what has been happening, on how it is changing my life (for better or for worse), and what direction I should go. But really, I am someone who seems to just go, oftentimes without thinking too much where I am going. And somehow life has taken me places exciting and unexpected.

I guess I am very fortunate... or just patient, and as people say, good things come to those who wait. Some four months ago I submitted the application for what people say is the best university in Canada, and a reputable one in North America, and even ranked 12th in the whole world. Anyways, besides all this fame and glory, I submitted the application, not thinking too much about it, and not even sure whether I would be taken. Alongside the application, I also applied for a great scholarship, which will basically cover almost all costs of study and living. I wrote these pompously worded applications and motivation letters, praising the institution I am going to, and saying what great experiences and grades I have had.

Four months passed by without a word. And suddenly, the mail comes through the post, saying I have been chosen to be admitted to the course, and also that I will receive a fellowship position provided by the Boeing Company! Two excitements in as many number of days!

Compared to half a year ago, things are really looking up, and I am really moving on. For this all, I am extremely grateful... to all those people who have supported and encouraged me to go on and go through with what then seemed like a crazy and life-changing plan, but what today is within finger's reach. And somehow, the other day as I was reading the acceptance letter, my mind thought of my dad... how proud he must be! How he has been there, to support and encourage me as well, in his special silent ways.

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