Goodbye, 2024

As the year comes to a close, it is time for yet another reflection. Time waits for no one and in a blink of an eye I’m already approaching my 3rd year here in RVI. It has been a tumultuous year for me, with the highest highs and the lowest lows. Nothing speaks of growth than looking back at how this year has turned out to be.

The start of the year was hazy to me as always, as I try to assimilate myself into the new year. I recalled how worried I was, knowing that I needed to be independent, yet having Sheila being relocated overseas for more than a month. It was truly a calling that I am an independent full-time employee now and not an intern that requires constant hand holding.

Shortly after, we had our first family vacation as a whole with the three kids for the first time. Definitely one of the biggest highlights of the year, being able to capture the southern aurora in Tasmania as a whole family, it was truly one of those memories that is truly magical and will never be forgotten.

I also achieved my goal of getting my diving license and heading on my solo trip once again. It was definitely a good time away from the hustle and bustle of life and the deep sea allowed me to reflect on what it truly means to live a life. In fact, I had another trip with my childhood mates and also a short Taiwan getaway with my cousins. Truly blessed to be to have the time and financial capability to travel and explore the world while I’m young!

Towards the middle of the year, I also faced some personal family issues. Even though I’m the youngest of the family, I had to step up to fill in big responsibilities to give my family the confidence to rely on me. That in turn also took a toll on me as I realised I'm putting too much weight on my shoulders. I realise that like with every relationship in my life, family requires a delicate balance too. Of course I want to have the best for my family and parents, but I also got to learn to put myself first. I’m going to be slightly more selfish next year.

It came as an unexpected surprise but my fingers got itchy and I managed to get my bike way earlier than I expected. Well I did not meet my financial goal yet but I never regretted my decision. The bike isn’t my dream bike, but well dream changes too. I have been having so much fun with Aurora (yes my bike has a name), riding in and out of Malaysia frequently. The freedom to travel around with my own two wheel transport is something definitely euphoric.

As the year closes, we also managed to pull off two big programmes. When I look back at the things that we have achieved and accomplished, I always downplay them and tell myself: that’s not enough, I need to do more. But after the programme ended and looking back on the reflections done by the students, it was truly a reflective moment for myself as I realised that every single thing that I have done has given them this opportunity to grow, and to be a part of this programme. I am starting to see how I need to give myself more credit, when credit is due and I wish to carry this mindset moving forward into 2025.

2024 has indeed been a wild journey for 26 years old Daryl. He has progressed from a dumb immature university student into a working adult and I am now a role model and example for the youths that look up to me. I wish to carry this image with dignity and I look forward to my growth in 2025.

How has the year been for you? Document your reflection with us here at www.rivervalleyirregulars.com