"The one about the acceptance of things..."

The past 2-3 weeks or so has been testament to an arduous exercise of lab work, house hunting, appliance searching, and cleaning chores. Much to my defeatist pessimist persona, it wasn't the most comfortable nor convenient time I've ever spent; but the fruit consequence of this taxing journey, was dignified nonetheless. I have very few to grumble about at the moment; work's been progressing (slow but moving), I live in convenient proximity to uni, most basic appliances are up and running in the new dwelling but for most of them all, the whole process of moving has been surprisingly pleasant.

Gathering stuff for the new house has been an experience in itself; met quite a sum of people, made contact and initiated friendships in the same time. Shared stories, exchanged ideas and some even offered unconditional help. It's good to be constantly reminded of the kindness and forbearance of people - even strangers once in a while. I feel it gives you emotional composure amidst stormy paradoxes in your life; and it rather puts you at place in contentment over whatever circumstances you're in. When we share the conditions of others we increase our empathy on things, and acquire a heightened sense of security. But I guess because social interaction is already therapy in itself, having any sort of effortless conversation with anyone would already be an ameliorative regime.

Sometimes, in our darkest days we tend to follow suit into our own antagonistic view of our lives, and try to put blame on aspects that are beyond our control. In preposition of such things, we seek clarity and demand explanation over our afflictions without looking past the reason behind each adversity we face, or fall upon. I remain an aficionado that nothing happens by chance, and that everything transpires for an equal purpose. The past teaches us that most circumstances necessitate no demands for reasoning, but instead require our acceptance of it being. It is when we learn to accept the fact of our fates, that we then be able to learn something from it - and through that react accordingly. A mentor of mine once said that every challenge and hardship thrown to us in life; is like a parcel of knowledge waiting to be unwound. The passing of this parcel, in turn gives us a great gift - called wisdom.

When we accept the trials and tribulations put ahead to us, we learn to make full use of the conditions we are put on. When we have learned to achieve this; we have nothing to lose, but have everything to gain.

It is on this note that I'll always be reminding myself and others for support; for this year will be most challenging - much more than it was the previous.

-JeP

P/S : La Trobe hadn't changed much since my last departure; sure its slowly filling up with students starting their semesters in Mac, and everything's paced down following year end holidays and early year stigmas - but the people are still nice, my colleagues and office mates are as helpful, supportive and great as usual. It's good to be back.