Twenty Seventeen

As the year draws to a close, I feel compelled to reflect on twenty seventeen—a year that profoundly changed my life and perspective. This write-up is both a celebration and a reminder of the milestones achieved and the lessons learned. The year stands out for two significant accomplishments: completing my Master’s in Psychology and achieving my reading challenge. Both were cherished childhood dreams that took over two decades to realize. These milestones have filled me with an immense sense of pride, and while I may sound smug, I believe this moment deserves to be celebrated.

After two years abroad, I returned to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, my homeland. Living alone in a foreign land among people from diverse countries was an experience that tested my resilience. The struggles of those two years often found their way into my blogs and social media posts, reflecting the challenges of adapting to an unfamiliar environment. My survival through those years was thanks to the unwavering support of my life-support system—my parents, siblings, relatives, and the love of my life, Rekha Monger. Their late-night calls and comforting words were my anchors in turbulent times. On the other hand, I lost some friendships to misunderstandings and pride. While those losses were painful, they taught me resilience and the value of true companionship.

Returning to work after a two-year hiatus was daunting, but my passion for teaching reignited my determination. My workplace had transformed remarkably during my absence, leaving me in awe and revitalizing my enthusiasm for the profession. This renewed energy drove me to embrace challenges with optimism and dedication. Yet, life in Samtse remained a challenge, a place that has been the backdrop for some of my most difficult experiences. Despite the insincerity and hypocrisy of certain individuals, I rise each day with positivity and determination, choosing to shield myself with silence and indifference rather than engaging in negativity.

In November, I embarked on a transformative journey to eastern Bhutan, combining work with a solo adventure across half the country. Traveling by public transport over a week, I discovered a deeper connection with myself. This journey brought me closer to the unrefined beauty of Bhutan’s east, a region often overlooked but profoundly captivating. The trip taught me independence, patience, and the art of balancing work with pleasure—a lesson I had long sought to master.

Books have always been my sanctuary, and this year was no exception. My reading challenge began with Dirty Pretty Things by Michael Faudet and ended with Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki. Officially, I read 60 books; unofficially, 62. Each book offered a unique journey, untouched by the pressure of meeting targets. This passion for reading was nurtured by my mother, who encouraged me to prioritize books over chores. Her support planted the seeds for my lifelong dream of owning a personal library—a dream that began to materialize this year with a beautiful bookshelf gifted by my boss. My love for books is unapologetic, and I remain steadfast in my pursuit of building a vast personal collection.

As I reflect on the year, I cannot ignore the encounters with individuals who tested my strength unimaginably. To those who inflicted pain, I offer no forgiveness. Their actions strengthened my resolve, and I trust karma will address the balance in due time. Twenty Seventeen has been a year of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering determination. As I bid it farewell, I carry forward its lessons and look ahead with hope for a healthy, joyful, and fulfilling twenty eighteen. Happy New Year!