HNY

Change has been captured in full.
Ego to let go.
A To-do list far too long.

My new year haiku.

2018 was my year of seeking and embracing change.
And in this change, I feel like I am getting back to me.
Now, in 2019, I hope to make all decisions without “me” (my ego)

here we go.

Many adventures were had in 2018:
Guangzhou, China
Hakuba, Japan
Ushongo Beach, Tanzania
Entebbe, Uganda
Lushoto, Tanzania
Dar Es Salaam, Taznania
Nairobi, Kenya
Balkans, Europe

… and many amazing humans were met. I won’t list them here but know that I am grateful to all of you for keeping me sane in Arusha. I also said goodbye to some of the key characters from this past year, I wish them the best of luck in their new adventures back on the other side of the southern hemisphere.

2018 gave me clarity. Clear is a significantly underrated state of being. I don’t know what will happen in 2019, but I am okay with not knowing.

How lucky I am to be able to walk so confidently into the future.
I have my Australian passport, my education and upbringing to thank for this.
Another piece of writing on the topic of luck is on it’s way soon.

My favourite thing about Arusha is that without fail, everyday, something makes you feel SOMETHING. It’s like Melbourne and the weather, but with feelings.

In 2018, things have made me laugh, smile and cry.
Things have angered and saddened me.
I have been awestruck and disgusted.

Is this any different to anywhere in the world? It shouldn’t be. This experience isn’t special. It may be unique in it’s intricacies. But it isn’t special. I think I’ve realised that the only reason my experience was so much richer this year was because my eyes were open.

So, here is to keeping my eyes open in 2019.
(Insert pun about 2020 vision here)