Past revisited painfully...

random necklaces from Banana Republic... (I think)

Ever walked into a reunion and wondered why you have gone desperate ways with a group of friends?

I have... In fact, this was just weeks ago where I went to a reunion with a group of friends I haven't seen for quite a while. During the reunion, I can't help but wonder "wow, this group of friends are amazing... What was I thinking to leave them"? 

A few days after the reunion, I continue to keep in contact with them... Then the inevitable happened... I got hurt.

In fact, I got hurt almost the same way I did when I made the painful decision to part with them a few years ago. 

In my mind I was thinking: Steph, you are dumb... Why can't you trust your past self more? You made that painful decision, you ought to stick to it...

I admit that the time at the reunion was truly enjoyable... But some things will always be the same... People. 

I learned this time that... There is a reason why reunions should only be kept as reunions... It is wonderful to reconnect with friends and catch up with them over dinner or lunch... but always remember, there is a reason why you have decided to drift off... Never forget that reason.

letters and gifts

As I am leaving English Village... my students have spoiled me and gave me many gifts. They are very precious to me... but what I find even more precious are the letters and cards attached to them.

When I was younger I couldn't understand why people cared about so much about cards... I use to think they were only there to let the receiver know that the gift was from the gifter.

Slowly did I realize just how these heartfelt messages are and how people pour their hearts out to write out these letters and cards.

gifts are good... and I really like receiving them... flowers too... actually... I don't mind whatever it may be... but cards are like a snapshot of moments when the writer wants to express what is in their hearts and mind.



... I miss my students :'(

World Cup Belgium vs. Japan thoughts

The Belgium vs. Japan match has got to be one of the most intense and most interesting games so far at the Russia World Cup 2018. For most, if not, throughout the whole game, my eyes were literally glued to the screen.

I was impressed with how serious and skillful the players were. I'm proud of both sides.

I really liked what the commenter said in regards to the goal which qualified Belgium and disqualified Japan to the next stage was done brilliantly.

"...was Japan the victim of their own corner kick when they sent so many players forward looking to win it themselves?"

Just moments before the winning goal... Japan was at an advantage, and even the commenter said:

 "Japan score here, Belgium['s] going home"

And then, it took a turn... Belgium made use of the opportunity (when Japan did not score) to their favour.

This made me think, has there ever been a time in my life where I was so sure that things were going my way only to realize in the end I didn't get anything because I was too confident?

Confidence is good... and sometimes things seem to go a certain way thinking we would get it... but we can never be 100% sure... there are so many things that can happen to change everything in an instant.

(might write a more detailed reflection later)

Lessons learned this week

photo source: http://barefoottriathlete.ca

- Pride and confidence are two different things

- being polite and nice doesn't mean letting people step on you

- infatuation is not love

- obsession and being loyal are entirely different things

(will be elaborated later)