It has been an incredibly long time since I last wrote any notes. Life has undergone numerous significant changes once again, and I simply haven’t been able to find a moment of spare time to document them. However, I firmly believe that putting these experiences into words is crucial. It serves not only as a record of my life but also as a testament to my struggles and my very existence, even if it all may ultimately seem ephemeral.

Every night, as I lie down on my bed, ready to sleep after the daily routine of either work or rest, my life flashes before me like sparks from a burning campfire. I feel the passage of my life slipping away, tasting the bitterness of regrets. I resist the indescribable grace of it all, seeking the identity of my own existence. Yet, sadly, it seems to be a complete void. Despite this, I still don’t want to sleep. Just staying awake feels like enough, satisfying even if, in the end, everything is empty and meaningless.

It has been nearly three weeks since I formally started working at the company. To be honest, it hasn’t been very intensive, and I think they are indeed giving me quite a lot of time to study things related to our work, either through watching online video tutorials or reading some documents.

I’m still trying to find the rhythm of working in the company and to discover the most comfortable and suitable way for myself. Deep in my heart, I hope to have a complete and meaningful day, even if it can be quite intensive. On the other hand, I desperately refuse to sacrifice my personal time. My life has to be separate from work; during weekends and after work hours, I strongly prefer to deal with my personal matters. This makes me puzzled and confused.

After a 5-hour journey on the CRH train, I finally arrived in Beijing. I’m about to start a new chapter and begin my career here. I still feel dizzy, and everything in front of me seems like a dream. So far, everything has gone smoothly, and the weather is quite pleasant.

Regarding Beijing and me, I visited Beijing last year for a flight transfer at the airport. Before that, I came with my family in 2008 to see the Olympic Games, which was 16 years ago. I would never have expected that after so many years and so much traveling, I would one day return to Beijing to start my first professional career.

Between mid-May and mid-June, I embarked on a crazy sojourn, primarily staying in Shanghai while trying to understand why the city is so highly regarded by students returning from abroad. Indeed, Shanghai is a city of vast opportunities and high living standards. The fusion of Eastern and Western cultures gives the city an exotic charm.

Additionally, I visited Zhoushan in Zhejiang to explore Putuo Mountain and traveled to Suzhou to see its gardens and streets, embracing Buddhist traditions and glimpsing the charm of the Qing and Ming Dynasties.

I recently wrapped up a week-long journey in Nanjing, a city that has played a pivotal role in my formative years. Nanjing, with its storied past and vibrant culture, has always held a special place in my heart. It was here that I navigated the challenges of international high school exams, embarked on solo international travel at 17, and delved into the intricacies of IELTS and Japanese.

Nanjing’s rich tapestry of history and culture is palpable at every turn. I visited several landmarks, such as Fuzimiao, Jiming Temple, Xuanwu Lake, and Mochou Lake, each narrating its own story of the past. These sites are not just scenic; they are profound testimonies to the historical and cultural evolution that has shaped humanity and the region, especially during the tumultuous years of 1912-1945.

As the calendar flips to 2024, I find myself grappling with a surreal feeling. Turning 24 this year marks a significant personal milestone, yet I can’t shake off the sensation of being unprepared. In my younger years, 24 seemed an age where significant achievements in academia or career would be a given. However, reality presents a starkly different picture, one that’s humbling yet enlightening.

Reflecting on the past year, I realize that perhaps my journey has been more rewarding than I acknowledged. Completing my Master’s in Computer Science in 2023 was no small feat, especially considering my background in Finance. The path wasn’t straightforward; I often felt out of my depth in the CS field. Yet, the effort I poured into my studies was immense, and the knowledge I gained has been profoundly satisfying.

My wishes for the new year are simple: to continue learning and growing. This isn’t about following the mantra of “stay hungry, stay foolish.” It’s about nurturing a natural curiosity, an instinct to understand and explore. As 2024 unfolds, I hope to embrace this journey of discovery, acknowledging the challenges and celebrating the milestones along the way.

It’s been four years since I last returned to China. Time flies, and so much has changed. Initially, the thought of coming back was somewhat terrifying, but it turned out to be a positive experience. I’m on the cusp of starting a new chapter of my life here, and so far, it’s been wonderful. I’m hopeful that, four years from now, I’ll still feel confident about my decision to move back.

My journey thus far has been a tapestry of unexpected twists and enriching lessons. One striking aspect is the ease of daily life here. Whether it’s dining out, traveling, or booking hotels, everything is remarkably streamlined. There’s a lot of discussion about surveillance, yet it surprisingly contributes to a sense of security. The worry of losing anything seems to vanish here.

At times, I marvel at the quality of life, despite the inevitable crowds. Interestingly, these crowds are reminiscent of those in Sydney or Melbourne, yet they have their unique rhythm and energy. This realization brings a sense of familiarity in an otherwise new environment.

To anyone reading this, I wish you a journey filled with growth and happiness, just as I hope for myself. Here’s to embracing life’s changes with optimism!