by Buzz | Jun 22, 2023 | Personal stories, Soulful Ponderings
Introduction
Embarking on a new career path can be both exciting and challenging. For some, the desire to explore a different culture and overcome personal barriers leads them to pursue work opportunities in foreign lands. This was the case for me when I made the decision to teach English in China due to health concerns. However, after a few years, I found myself reflecting on the sacrifices made and questioning whether it was all worth it. In this blog, I will delve into the unique experiences, joys, and hardships that come with living abroad and forging a new life away from home.
Loneliness and Separation
One of the most significant challenges of living in a foreign country is the separation from loved ones. Being far away from your spouse, family, and friends can take a toll on your emotional well-being. Instead of building deep, lasting friendships, you often find yourself surrounded by transient acquaintances. The language barrier adds another layer of difficulty, making it harder to connect with locals on a meaningful level. Maintaining your own identity becomes a balancing act as you navigate cultural differences and adapt to societal expectations.
The Sacrifice of Personal Interests
Living abroad often means sacrificing the pursuit of hobbies and interests that once brought you joy. The demands of work, especially in my case of teaching English, can be all-consuming. Working six days a week restricts the time available for personal endeavors, leaving you feeling limited and unfulfilled. The image projected on social media may convey an exotic lifestyle filled with frequent travel, but the reality often consists of days marked by monotony, loneliness, and a longing for the comforts of home.
Weighing the Costs and Benefits
When considering whether the sacrifices are worth it, it’s essential to evaluate the long-term goals and motivations. For many, the opportunity to save for retirement and establish financial security becomes a driving force. In my case, the decision to pursue a less stressful job had tangible health benefits, such as weight loss and improved blood pressure. However, it is crucial to reflect on the intangible costs that accompany these gains. Is the distance from loved ones and the loss of personal fulfillment worth the improved physical well-being?
The Parental Perspective
In contemplating my choices, I couldn’t help but think of my late father, who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. Like many parents, he made sacrifices to ensure his children had a brighter future. Parental responsibility often extends far beyond a child’s 21st birthday, and we willingly endure hardship to secure their well-being. While we may encounter negativity and criticism from our children, we understand that our sacrifices lay the foundation for their success. Witnessing their achievements and seeing them overcome challenges brings immense pride and satisfaction.
The Legacy of Sacrifice
As parents, our investment in our children’s lives may go unnoticed or underappreciated, but the impact is profound. The decades of sacrifice transform them into balanced individuals who, in turn, will create a better future for their own children. And so, the cycle continues. The rewards lie not in receiving thanks and appreciation but in witnessing their growth and resilience. Our revenge is to spoil our grand kids to their frustration. We know that we have played a part in their happiness and success.
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue a new career abroad is a deeply personal decision, filled with both joys and hardships. It requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to make sacrifices. As I reflect on my own experiences, I realize that there is no definitive answer to whether it is worth it or not. The balance between personal fulfillment, family connections, and long-term goals is delicate and unique to each individual. In the end, it is a journey of self-discovery, growth, and the pursuit of a life that feels meaningful and authentic.
by Buzz | Jun 15, 2023 | Health and Wellness
Introduction
Picture this: you’re standing in front of a fridge, staring longingly at the last slice of chocolate cake. You know you should resist, but that fluffy, gooey goodness is calling your name. Your mental calorie App does a quick calculation as to how many calories are in the cake. You calculate how long you must jog in order to indulge in this pleasure. We’ve all been there, my friend. Food addiction is a real struggle, but fear not!
Understanding Your Food Affair:
First things first, let’s take a moment to reflect on our complex relationship with food. Are you the type who eats for pleasure, finding solace in a bowl of ice cream after a bad day? Or perhaps you’re more of an emotional eater, seeking comfort in a bag of potato chips during a Netflix binge. Understanding why we turn to food is the first step to finding a healthier path. Remember, food is like that ex you just can’t get over – it’s time to let go of the emotional baggage and view it as fuel for our amazing bodies!
A World of Healthy Alternatives
Now that we’ve committed to breaking up with our unhealthy cravings, it’s time to explore the tantalizing world of healthy alternatives. Who said healthy food has to be boring? It’s time to get creative in the kitchen and discover nutritious and satisfying options that make our taste buds dance. Swap out that greasy bag of chips for some homemade kale chips or ditch the sugary cereal for a bowl of overnight oats sprinkled with a dash of cinnamon. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavorful recipes and let your inner food artist shine!
Mastering the Art of Mindful Eating
Alright, my fellow food enthusiasts, it’s time to practice the ancient art of mindful eating. Put away the distractions, turn off the TV, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. It’s like a conversation between your stomach and brain – except without all the small talk. Before you dig into that plate of deliciousness, take a moment to assess if your body is truly hungry or if it’s just a case of boredom or emotions playing tricks on you. Choose nourishing foods that love you back and support your overall well-being.
Conclusion
Congratulations, brave soul! You’ve embarked on a journey to conquer the beast that is food addiction and establish healthy eating habits. Remember, it’s all about finding balance and nourishing your body with love and care. So the next time that slice of chocolate cake tries to lure you in, give it a cheeky smile and say, “Not today, my friend!” Embrace the world of nutritious alternatives, practice mindful eating, and celebrate each small victory along the way. Bon appétit!
by Buzz | Jun 7, 2023 | Soulful Ponderings
Introduction:
In life, it’s often said that “big doors move on small hinges.” These small hinges represent the impactful (yet often unaware) individuals who play influential roles in shaping our life journey. From parents and teachers to mentors and supporters, these people leave an indelible mark on our lives. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of these individuals, share personal experiences, and reflect on the importance of expressing gratitude for the transformative effect they have on our lives.
The Early Lessons: Cooking, Language, and Rural Living
My journey began with my mother, who taught me to cook at a young age. Little did I know that this seemingly small act would pave the way for a fulfilling career in the hospitality industry. Through cooking, I discovered a passion for diverse environments and connecting with people from all walks of life.
Another pivotal moment came when my parents decided to relocate to a rural area for a few years. This move immersed me in the stark differences between rural and urban lifestyles, providing valuable insights and broadening my perspective. The challenge of communicating predominantly in Afrikaans also pushed me to improve my second language skills, a valuable asset in an increasingly interconnected world.
Stepping into Leadership: Overcoming Challenges and Discovering Aptitude
Upon qualifying as a manager, I found myself entrusted with overseeing a 120-bed hospital catering department at the young age of 22. This experience was initially intimidating, especially since my second-in-command was older than my mother and resistant to working with me. However, this early taste of management revealed my aptitude for people management. Thriving in this position, I continued to pursue management roles for the next three decades.
Recognizing the Small Hinges: Parents, Teachers, Mentors, and Supporters
Often, we fail to fully appreciate the small hinges that shape our lives. They come in various forms—a demanding teacher who pushes us beyond our perceived limits, a caring mentor who provides guidance and support, or our parents’ sacrifices to provide us with a better education. Our parents may have provided us with tools for learning, like buying us a computer for schoolwork (which we may have primarily used for games). They have attended our sports matches, listened to our complaints, and continuously encouraged us to do better. The list of their unwavering support is endless.
The Power of Borrowing: Strengthening Relationships and Navigating Challenges
Life can be financially challenging at times, and we may find ourselves needing to borrow money from friends and family—a task never taken lightly. However, these acts of borrowing smooth out rough patches in our relationships and help us navigate through difficult situations involving schools, hospitals, banks, and beyond. It provided a meal to eat, an electricity bill that was paid, bus fare etc. But by lending us the money so graciously (and a bit apprehensively) you impacted our lives. Very often you took the loan as a potential loss, not expecting repayment.
Extending Thanks and Paying It Forward
To all my “hinges”, I want to seize the opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks for the transformative effect they have had on my life and that of my family. You have allowed me to breathe easier, sleep better, travel smoothly, explore new opportunities and to live my life fuller.
To those who have passed and to whom I cannot express my gratitude, I have chosen to pay it forward. Through my decisions and choices, I hope to positively impact the destinies of others, just as you have impacted mine. By recognizing the small hinges in my own life, I aim to create a ripple effect that will shape the lives of those random people I encounter, leaving behind a meaningful and lasting legacy.
Conclusion:
The saying “big doors move on small hinges” reminds us of the profound impact that various individuals have on our lives. From parents and teachers to mentors and supporters, these people serve as catalysts, influencing and shaping our personal and professional growth. It is crucial to recognize and express gratitude for these impactful individuals, for they have played a significant role in our journey. Let us reflect on their contributions, extend our thanks to those still with us, and pay it forward to create a positive impact on the lives of others. By doing so, we ensure that the legacy of these small hinges lives on and continues to inspire generations to come.
