2016 did not start on a good note and throughout the year there seemed to be endless shocking news coming from all over the world. But it had been surprisingly kind to me... in fact, if I recount my accomplishments for the year, I can come up with a sizeable list!
- I survived SSS (despite the initial despair)
- I sky dived!
- I completed my Masters
- I achieved the Spartan Trifecta
- I bought a place of my own
- I did white water rafting
- I resisted temptation and not made the same mistake
But most importantly, I had been kind and I loved
However, there was one symbolic act that really stood out for me this year which took place just a few days ago......
I used to really love swimming.. so much so that I got so tanned that ah ma called me hei zhen zhu or Black Pearl. Yet, somehow over the years, pool water became too cold for me to swim in. I blame diving which pampered me with full body suits. Unless it is a heated pool or the weather and temperature are unbearably hot, I found the direct contact between my bikini-clad body and any body of water impossible.. =(
Then in Dec 2014, I read somewhere (note to self to always credit sources!) of the following anecdote:
I shared it on Facebook as a reminder to self to do the same. Took me 2 years to actually realise it.
So a few days ago, I woke up and decided to go for a swim. I hesitated because the sun was not yet strong or bright but I remembered the story and went ahead to put on my swimming suit and proceeded to the pool. I did not test the water. I just dove right in. Although it was cold but it also really felt "lovely". =) (And I completed 10 laps!)
This single act signified to me that I am capable of overcoming a self-imposed barrier; that nothing is impossible or unachievable; it made me believe in myself and my greatness more. This reminds me of a quote from someone who says nobody benefits from your being small. I don't want to be small anymore.. I want to develop to MY full potential.
2017 can only be better =