The last day of 2022 marks 1 year in London. I still remember vividly exactly one year ago, the hassles and stress we went through to get on the flight to London; the uncertainty that was ahead of us. I can't really remember where the courage came from, to just sort of leave everything I'm familiar with behind, knowing the chances of returning is pretty low. But here we are!
A little look back and reflection of 2022:
I've certainly become less easily frustrated, a little bit more patient. I learned to slow down, observe, listen, and pay attention to things happening around me. Bigger living space, wider streets, "bigger" sky, better mental health, for both humans and dogs. It's that simple.
Work life balance can be real. Part of it is probably due to a different role I've taken on, the other part is probably the culture? I'm much more mindful what time I'm sending a Teams message, or whether I reply to any work related emails / messages during my time off, certainly still some new habits to get used to.
I'm probably drinking a little more frequently than I'd like to. Maybe it's because there's more space now to store wine / liquor / beer at home. Or having friends over is a great reason to have a few drinks. Or wine / cocktail becomes much more enjoyable and match better with the cuisine we are having. At some point, I was slightly worried whether I could become reliant on alcohol, but after a short trip to Canada without even thinking about having a drink, I know it is simply a UK-specific habit, or part of the culture.
I still don't quite understand why "dog park" isn't common (or it is, but a paid one), children are in a fenced area while dogs are running around in open area in the parks. Children, even if they are young, are in a much better position to listen, think, and make decisions, they also speak the same language as their carers. Dogs, on the other hand, still have animal instinct to some extent, doesn't matter how much we like to treat them like our children. Considering both safety and sharing of public space, I still think there are plenty of reasons to have fenced dog parks available.
Following the above point, I've developed a completely different view towards cemeteries. Growing up, I've been taught not to go near cemeteries if there's not a need, and that those places are not "clean". After spending some time with other dog owners walking around cemeteries (which are fenced areas) and letting the dogs hang out, they now become my new favourite dog walking routes.
It's a mixed feeling to hear Cantonese in the public (especially in my neighbourhood) more often than expected. Great that it creates a sense of familiarity, but it makes me realize the fact that many people from Hong Kong have chosen to leave their hometown is very real.
I have been learning to live a pre-COVID life, surprisingly reverting back to the lifestyle that we've been looking forward to also takes time! Feeling excited about vacations, festivals, holidays, feeling hopeful or looking forward to what comes next in life - these are all things that I haven't experienced since COVID, or coincidentally since the political movement took place in 2019.
The lessons Hong Kong and COVID had taught me: things that we've been taken for granted - time spent with our loved ones, friends & family, our routines, freedom to move around etc - can all be taken away before we know it. I now treasure quality face to face time a lot more, and whenever circumstances permit, I'd make sure to spend time with others in person, rather than virtually.
Money cannot buy happiness, not directly, but indirectly...maybe? Money has never been the top of my list when I think of priorities or things that matter. I've always been a strong believer that money cannot buy happiness among many other things...until now. Living in London means I've accepted a lower net salary
Going to theatre shows has always been something I've wanted to do during the 3 trips I've made to London, but the timing was never right! Now that I'm here, going to a Westend show has almost become a monthly activity. Attended 9 shows in 2022, including musical, play, and opera, Les Mis being my favourite!
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