Final day of 3rd Semester- September 13, 2023

Today marks nearly a year since I made the pivotal decision to change the course of my life, stepping away from the foreign service cadre. It's surreal to think that my last day at the Ministry was in September 2022. Time has raced by since I arrived in Canada, and now, as I sit here in the UCW library on the fifth floor, it's the final day of my third semester at university.

As I gaze out of the window, I see the towering buildings that make up the Vancouver skyline. They stand resolute, providing shelter to thousands of individuals, each with their own set of financial, social, and economic challenges. People bustle along the streets, and workers toil away, digging the ground beneath the bridge. It's a stark reminder that everyone has their own battles to face, bills to clear, and a stomach to fill.

The future still hangs over me like a thick cloud in the sky, uncertain and uncharted. I can't help but wonder where I'll be a year from now. Will I have a clearer vision of my dreams? Will I be able to leverage the potential I've been nurturing and developing thus far?

This journey of self-discovery and reinvention hasn't been easy. Leaving behind a career path I had long envisioned was a daunting step, but I knew I needed a change. Canada has offered me new experiences, perspectives, and challenges. It's a place where diversity thrives, and opportunities abound.

As I reflect on this past year, I realize that it's been a period of transformation and growth. I've learned to adapt, face uncertainty, and embrace change. The academic rigors of my university life have expanded my horizons, and I've met people from all walks of life who have enriched my understanding of the world.

At this moment, though my future may seem uncertain, I am filled with hope. I believe that in the coming year, I will gain more clarity about my aspirations and find a path that aligns with my true self. I am determined to work diligently, learn continuously, and make the most of the opportunities that come my way.

So, here's to the next chapter, with the hope that a year from now, I will be in a better position to define my dreams and make my mark on the world, all while cherishing the experiences and lessons of this incredible journey.

Navigating Relationships: A Third-Party Perspective

In the intricate web of relationships, the task of being a middleman between A and B has proven to be both challenging and rewarding. The inherent complexities demand a delicate balance, an objective approach, and a commitment to clarity over color.

Balancing the expectations and dynamics between A and B is a task that requires patience, empathy, and understanding. While emotions often run high, my role as an intermediary comes with the responsibility to be an advocate for clear communication and harmonious coexistence.

The essence of my role lies in seeing situations through a pure, unbiased lens. It's essential to avoid projecting A’s or B’s perspectives onto the issues. Rather, one must sift through the complexities and offer objective opinions that aren't clouded by personal sentiments.

Empathy forms the cornerstone of effective communication. To navigate conversations smoothly, one must truly understand both sides of the equation. Listening actively to each party's concerns helps in formulating responses that address their feelings and needs.

While it's natural to lean towards A or B, being impartial is paramount. One must resist the urge to favor one side over the other. Instead, it’s important to guide discussions towards resolutions that benefit all parties involved.

The bedrock of any role is transparency. Honest conversations about one’s own feelings and observations create an environment of trust. It's essential to express the stance respectfully, even if it means highlighting the areas where improvements are needed.

Misunderstandings often arise due to miscommunication. By acting as a conduit, it can help dissect these misunderstandings and clarify intentions. Guiding the dialogue towards mutual understanding paves the way for smoother relationships.

Ultimately, the goal is to foster harmony between both sets of A and B party. We should aim to create a space where differing opinions can coexist peacefully, and a shared understanding of mutual respect can prevail. 

Trip to Hicks Lake with Joemar and Mercy’s Team

Date: August 6, 2023

The invitation from Joemar to join him for a trip to Hicks Lake was an unexpected delight. It was a much-needed break from the routine, and the promise of a serene getaway was too enticing to resist. The journey, a mere two-hour drive from Richmond, was conveniently close yet promised a refreshing change of scenery.

As I prepared for the trip, I learned that Chador and others wouldn't be able to make it, as they had opted for a day of rest on Sunday. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it allowed me to complete an impending assignment the day before, ensuring that I could fully immerse myself in the upcoming adventure without any looming deadlines.

Early in the morning, Joemar arrived to pick me up, his excitement infectious. The clock was close to 9 am when we set off, embarking on a journey that held promises of camaraderie and nature's embrace. The road stretched ahead, winding through picturesque landscapes, building my anticipation with each passing mile.

Upon arrival, the beauty of Hicks Lake was nothing short of breathtaking. The tranquility of the surroundings instantly put me at ease. Joemar and Mercy's team had thoughtfully brought along everything we could possibly need – from hearty meals to refreshing juices and a variety of snacks, ensuring that our energy levels remained high for a day of adventure.

Our culinary escapade was a delightful prelude to the main event. With satisfied appetites, we made our way to the lake's edge. Laughter and excitement filled the air as the kids plunged into the water, their playful splashes creating ripples that danced on the lake's surface. Joemar and his friend Ryan had brought a boat along, and they wasted no time in letting me wear the life jacket and get it in the sea.

Under Joemar's patient guidance, I learned the art of pedaling in the serene waters of Hicks Lake. It was a skill that felt foreign at first, but as the minutes passed, my confidence grew. And soon enough, I found myself gliding smoothly across the lake's gentle waves. The experience was nothing short of magical – the calm at the center of the lake mirrored the peace I felt in my heart. The worries of daily life seemed to evaporate with each stroke of the paddle, replaced by a sense of serenity that only nature can bestow.

As the sun began its slow descent toward the horizon, casting hues of gold and orange across the water, I realized that this trip was a gift. A gift of friendship, adventure, and a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The camaraderie, the laughter, the sense of accomplishment as I smoothly navigated the boat – all of it contributed to a weekend that I would cherish for a long time.

After having reveled in countless moments of joy both on and off the tranquil waters of Hicks Lake, we reluctantly packed our memories and belongings to head back home. The journey back followed the same enchanting route, winding through the picturesque landscapes and peaceful forests that welcomed us at the beginning of our adventure. As the scenery unfurled outside the windows, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment – not just from the wonderful experiences of the day, but also from the bonds strengthened, the laughter shared, and the soothing embrace of nature that had granted us a much-needed escape from the ordinary.

Recollecting beautiful old memories

When I was young, my village was a world of its own, a cocoon of simplicity and joy that shielded me from the complexities of the outside world. I was innocent and naive, unaware of the vastness that lay beyond my familiar surroundings. The outside world seemed like a distant dream, and many aspects of it remained alien to me.

In that little world, I found meaning and happiness in every small thing. The forest and deep jungle were my playgrounds, and the excitement of discovering their hidden mysteries was the most thrilling adventure I'd ever had. I cherished being within reach of my parents, listening to their wise advice, and experiencing the warmth of their affection. My days were filled with the laughter of my fellow villagers, and I regarded the pleasure of helping my neighbors whenever possible.

Modern electronic distractions were absent from my life, leaving me with the pure pleasures of herding cows and playing archery. Even the thought of joining school brought excitement and wonder. However, once there, I felt a mix of fear and curiosity toward my teachers and struggled to comprehend the enigma of mathematics.

In school, reading books and singing rhymes were our afternoon delights. We learned about the weather and days, absorbing knowledge with eager minds. Playing friendly games, competitions, and literary activities were the highlight of my days. We played walnut games and marbles, and sometimes fought and struggled for the fruits of a Dogwood tree which happened to be the Centre of attention in my Pry School. I remember running to school barefoot in both rain and sun and returning home late at night, the journey etched in my memory as a cherished adventure.

Life was about learning essential skills, broadening my mind to the outside world, and nurturing nature's gifts. I was introduced to gardening and planting flowers around my school, enhancing the beauty of the surroundings. Joining nature clubs taught me about environmental awareness, and annual variety shows allowed me to showcase my talents in dancing, singing, and drama.

As the seasons changed, I guarded maize fields from wild animals and birds, collected firewood from the jungle, lumbered from the forest, and gathered bamboo from the mountaintops. Dawn was a time of daring adventure as I risked facing wild beasts to collect walnuts or firewood from the forest. Orchids, mushrooms, and other plants from the forest and riverside were treasured discoveries.

Local festivals were moments of pure joy, where we played, sang, and danced with abandon. I fondly remember attending others' religious festivals, where we performed songs and dances with passion and unity.

Shopping meant traveling days to the nearest road points, accompanied by horses and bulls. Life was simple yet fulfilling. I can’t bury the memories of several yak herders who would travel day and night throughout the year through my village and such a beautiful sight it was.

These memories are so rich and beautiful, so difficult to capture in mere words. I wonder if the generations to come will ever experience the same unbridled joy and simplicity that I once did. With the advancements of this age, will they ever get to breathe the cleanest air, drink the freshest weather, and relish the most beautiful natural environment like I did?

The modern world may offer conveniences and wonders beyond imagination, but I can't help but feel a profound attachment to the experiences of my childhood. They shaped me, molded my character, and filled my heart with the purest form of happiness. I was fortunate to witness the beauty of nature in its untouched splendor, and no painting could ever do justice to those breathtaking views.

As the world changes, I hold to these memories, a treasure trove of feelings etched in my heart. My childhood was a gift, a time of innocence, wonder, and connection with nature, and I shall cherish those memories that shaped who I am today. 

July 23, 2023 - Chador's Birthday Getaway

 

Today was a special day as it marked my wife’s birthday. Usually, I'm not one to make a big fuss about birthdays, but this year, things were different. Shacha and Karma Dema took the initiative to celebrate her birthday, and I couldn't resist joining in on the festivities.

On the eve of Chador's birthday, we managed to arrange a simple but meaningful celebration. We had a cake and some sweets to mark the occasion. Though it wasn't a grand affair, seeing Chador's happiness made it all worth it.

Chador had a dream to visit some beautiful places on her birthday, and we decided to make it come true. Our destination was the White Rock beach, a serene and picturesque spot. To get there, we rode a bus, and along the way, we were treated to breathtaking countryside scenery that offered a sense of peace and harmony amidst the bustling streets of Vancouver.

The weather wasn't entirely in our favor, but that didn't dampen our spirits. As soon as we reached the beach, we wasted no time and got into the sea, soaking up the refreshing waters for nearly an hour. It was a joyful and carefree moment, making memories we'd cherish.

After our beach time, we took a leisurely stroll around the nearby places, appreciating the beauty of the surroundings. It felt like a little escape from our daily routine, and we relished every moment of it. As the evening approached, we headed back to Richmond.

In the evening, our friend Joemar and Mercy surprised Chador with a special birthday dinner. We were joined by our friend Susan and her family, making it a lovely gathering. The dinner was delightful, and the company was even better. We shared laughter, stories, and made new memories together.

I'm so grateful to Joemar and Mercy for taking the initiative to plan this wonderful evening. Chador's birthday celebration turned out to be a day filled with joy, love, and happiness. It's moments like these that remind me of the importance of cherishing our loved ones and creating beautiful memories together.

As we wrap up this day, I say a heartfelt long life prayer for Chador. May she be blessed with happiness, good health, and prosperity in the coming year and for all the years to come. Happy birthday, my dear Chador!

Embracing a New Chapter: My Brother's Arrival in Canada

The anticipation in the air was palpable as the clock ticked closer to the moment I had been eagerly awaiting. It was the 18th of June 2023, when my beloved brother arrived in Canada. The thought of his arrival filled me with a mix of joy and anxiety, as I knew that I held a responsibility to guide him through the labyrinthine paths of this foreign land.

As I stood at the airport, my mind wandered back to the memories we had shared, the moments that slipped through our fingers, and the time that had betrayed us by keeping us apart. The distance that separated us for so long had finally come to an end with beautiful moments about to unfold. I hoped that bringing him here would be the catalyst for a better life.

My brother, with his innocent eyes and naive spirit, had stepped foot on a new continent, unaware of the challenges that lay ahead. It was up to me to be his guiding light, his anchor in the uncharted waters of Canada. I longed for him to find purpose, happiness, and success in this foreign land, and I was determined to do everything in my power to make it so.

Days turned into weeks, and each passing day brought with it new lessons and experiences. I became my brother's confidant, his teacher, and his greatest cheerleader. Together, we navigated the intricate webs of paperwork, job applications, and cultural adaptation. Though exploring the job market posed its challenges, we never faltered in our resolve.

I watched with pride as my brother, like a sprouting seed reaching for the sun, grew with each passing day. His innocence transformed into curiosity, his hesitation morphed into determination, and his unfamiliarity with Canadian customs gradually dissolved. I marveled at his resilience and admired his ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of our new home.

While I wished for nothing but the best for him, I knew that life would not always be a smooth journey. There would be bumps along the way, disappointments that threatened to dim his spirit, and moments of doubt that could cast shadows over his dreams. However, I firmly believed that with each challenge, he would only emerge stronger, armed with the wisdom gained from experience.

As the seasons changed, so did my brother's prospects. Job interviews turned into opportunities, and with every rejection, he grew more determined to find his place in this foreign land. The road was arduous, but his resilience remained unyielding. I held his hand and reminded him that success often sprouts from the seeds of perseverance.

In my heart, I harbored nothing but good wishes for him. I wished for him to find the meaning of life here—to discover his passions, forge friendships, and build a future that would bring him contentment and joy. I hoped that this land would embrace him, just as it had embraced me, and provide him with opportunities to blossom into the best version of himself.

Today, as I sit beside my brother, reflecting on the journey we've embarked upon together, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. The worry that once weighed heavily upon my heart has dissipated a bit but still a long way to go, replaced by a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Having him right next to me, no longer separated by time and distance, is a blessing.

As we gaze at the horizon, our eyes brimming with hope, we know that the road ahead may still be challenging. But together, we are armed with resilience, determination, and an unbreakable bond. With each passing day, my brother grows closer to finding his place, his purpose, and his own unique meaning of life here in Canada. And I, as his steadfast companion, will continue to be there every step of the way, cheering him on as he embraces this new chapter of his life.

Even if I cannot thrive, I hope to at least survive

In the midst of life's rapid pace, I find myself contemplating the consequences of my choices. Sometimes, these choices lead to bitter outcomes, while other times they bring happiness and rewards. However, the process of navigating through life's challenges can be arduous. It often feels like I am traversing a tangled path, filled with sadness, frustration, pain, and constant worries. In such moments, all I desire is a sense of peace and a calm mind that can help me make proper decisions. 

However, it seems that when I am at a disadvantage, people around me tend to emotionally manipulate and blackmail me, further complicating my journey. Nonetheless, I hold onto hope that one day the tides will turn, and my circumstances will take a more positive course. Even if I cannot thrive, I hope to at least survive. May my situation improve and bring about a brighter future. 

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

 

On May 6th, 2023, my wife and I had the pleasure of visiting the Abbotsford Tulip Festival with Joemar, Mercy, and Joemar's friend Marco's family. This festival was a breathtaking display of the natural beauty of tulips, a flower that I had only seen in photographs or as desktop wallpaper since my high school years. The festival was filled with hundreds and thousands of tulips, each with its unique color and fragrance, and was truly a heaven on earth. People from all walks of life paid daily visits to witness the rare moments of these picturesque flower plants.

The experience of being among these flowers and enjoying their beauty was satisfying and gave us immense happiness. My wife took several photos to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the tulips, and we had a great day thanks to Joemar and Mercy. The gloomy weather did not dampen our spirits, and we left feeling inspired by the natural beauty around us. We hope to attend similar festivals in the future and immerse ourselves in the wonders of nature.

On our way back, we decided to stop by Queen Elizabeth Park, one of the biggest parks in Vancouver. The serenity and beauty of the park were mesmerizing as we strolled through it, admiring the unique presence of plants and landscapes that reminded me of my home country. The natural surroundings offered a peaceful escape from the bustling city, and we felt grateful for the opportunity to enjoy the park's tranquil atmosphere.

The following day, May 7th, 2023, we headed to Jericho Beach and had a lot of fun exploring the sandy shoreline and ocean views. The weekend spent exploring Vancouver's natural beauty was worth our time and left us with unforgettable memories. It's always a privilege to experience the wonders of nature, and we were grateful for the opportunity to immerse ourselves in it. The Abbotsford Tulip Festival, Queen Elizabeth Park, and Jericho Beach are just a few examples of the natural beauty that Vancouver has to offer, and we feel fortunate to have experienced them.

Vancouver Zoo

April 29, 2023

Today was a day filled with excitement, new experiences, and some mixed emotions. My friend Joemar and his wife Mercy hatched a plan to visit a zoo at Langlay, and I decided to join them along with Joemar's friend and his family. It was an hour-long drive to reach the Vancouver Zoo, and upon arrival, we were greeted by thousands of people. The sight of animals trapped inside the fence was heartbreaking. As I stood there, watching the wild animals in the enclosure, I couldn't help but wonder how they must feel being confined in such a small space. Although it was a pleasure to see them up close and witness their beauty and power, I couldn't shake off the feeling of sadness and guilt. If we were the ones trapped in a cage, how would we feel? It made me reflect on the importance of treating animals with respect and giving them the freedom to live as they were meant to. We must learn to appreciate and admire them from a distance, without exploiting or manipulating their natural instincts for our own pleasure or commercial gain. I also couldn't help but think of Maya Angelo's poem "I know why the caged bird sings" and how sad it is when people commercialize and manipulate the animal's natural instincts.

After spending some time at the zoo, we headed towards Arch Peace Park located at the border of the USA and Canada. It was a surreal experience to cross the border and step onto American soil. The United States had always been an admired country for me, and I never thought I would get the opportunity to visit. It was a moment of immense pleasure, and I wished that one day, I could explore this great country more.

Later in the evening, we returned to Richmond and had dinner together at one of the Chinese restaurants in Richmond Centre. It was a perfect way to end the day, with good food and even better company. We made plans to visit the Tulip festival the next weekend, but unfortunately this time, my wife couldn't join us as she had to attend overtime at her workplace. I regretted not being able to take her along and promised myself that I would take her there one day soon.

Overall, it was a great day filled with new experiences and memorable moments. The trip to the zoo left me with mixed emotions, but the opportunity to step onto American soil was a dream come true. I look forward to more adventures and experiences in the future.

Jamskipedia, my YouTube channel

I'm excited to share with you that I created my very own YouTube channel called "Jamskipedia" on 14th April 2023. It's been a dream of mine for a long time to share my artistic skills and knowledge with others through video content, and I finally took the leap to make it a reality.

One of the main reasons I created this channel was to hone my artistic skills further. I believe that creating videos and sharing them with others will help me improve my skills and grow as an artist. Another reason was to share my knowledge in this field with others through tutorials. I've learned so much over the years and I want to give back to the community by sharing my expertise.

In the long run, I hope to generate income from my channel and become financially stable. I know it will take time and effort to achieve this, but I'm determined to work hard and make it happen.

I've already posted a few tutorials on my channel, and I'm thrilled to see that people are starting to watch and enjoy them. It's a great feeling to know that I'm creating content that people are interested in. I plan to continue creating more videos to attract more subscribers and grow my channel.

Overall, I'm excited about this new chapter in my life and I can't wait to see where it takes me. Creating a YouTube channel has been a great decision so far, and I'm looking forward to seeing where it will lead me in the future.

Scooter practice along the beach

Today was an eventful day as I visited the Terra Nova and practiced scooter riding. The day started with work at Whitespot from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm. The work was hectic, and I was looking forward to some relaxation later in the day.

After work, I returned home to find my wife, and we decided to go to Joe's place for dinner. As we were on our way, Joe suggested that we practice scooter riding before dinner. He knew that I had been wanting to try it out for some time, and he was happy to let me practice it.

We drove to the Terra Nova, Thompson area along the beach, and we were greeted by a beautiful view of the ocean. Opposite us was the YVR International Airport, and we could see planes taking off and landing in the distance. It was a picturesque location, and I was excited to start practicing. I could feel the cool breeze over my head and mortar rumbling beneath my feet and enjoyed the ride.

Joe gave me some more advice to ride the scooter, and it was a great experience. It took me some time to get the hang of it, but by now with his guidance, I was able to ride it smoothly. I also encouraged my wife, Chador, to try riding the scooter, and she gave it a shot for the first time. She was a bit nervous, but with practice, I am sure she can ride it too.

We practiced for around 2-3 hours, and it was a lot of fun. I enjoyed the experience of riding a scooter, and it was a great way to spend time with Joe and Mercy.

After practicing, Joe and Mercy took us to a Chinese restaurant for dinner. We had a great time, and the food was delicious. It was a perfect way to end the day.

Overall, it was a memorable experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to try something new. I look forward to practicing scooter riding again in the future.

Grandvile Island and Stanley Park, Vancouver

"Come rain or come shine! Plan will proceed "remarked Joemar when I mentioned to him that the weather is not fine to go outside. Another day (7th April 2023) was spent exploring Vancouver, but the weather got too erratic, much like the pregnant mother's emotions. We moved to Stanley Park in a shower that soaked the morning.

Mercy, Chador, and Author in front of
A-maze-ing Laughter.

One of the biggest parks, Stanley Park is located primarily within Vancouver's metropolitan setting. There are beautiful views of the ocean, sea, sky, and woods over a nearly 400-hectare expanse. There are several trails, stunning beaches, and historical and natural attractions nearby, offering a wide range of adventure opportunities. It is the hub of attraction for people from all walks of life, in my opinion. Unless otherwise reported, it is open from 6 am to 10:00 pm and is accessible by walk, bicycle, or public transportation.    

Author and Joemar at English Bay Beach.

Following that, the weather improved, and we proceeded to Grandvile Island. It's a wonderful place to be but it never seemed to me like an island since it's very crowded. It reminded me of street marketplaces that are similar to Bangkok or India. People from various walks of life go there to take sea rides, spend the weekend with loved ones, or getaway. We had plenty of time to visit every part of the Island because Joemar could secure parking for his car until 5:00 pm. He sponsored us and took a 40-minute seaboat cruise (20 minutes back and forth). Upon eating lunch, we browsed the majority of the souvenir shops. There were also several street performers, magicians, singers, etc. entertaining the public and at the same time making living out of it. 

Author, Chador, Street performer, and Mercy
at Grandwill Island.

We spent some time listening to one man sing a Spanish song before taking pictures with him after his performance.

While we got back from the location, Joemar took us to see the downtown steam-powered clock, which has been running since the 1870s. One of the historical sites in Vancouver that draw so many tourists each day is this very steam clock. After that, we had a stroll around Canada Place.

After returning from Downtown, we headed to a nearby airport at  Larry Berg Flight Path Park to try out electric scooters. I had the chance to learn and practice riding an electric scooter thanks to Joemar, who brought one along. It was fortunate enough for me that I had never touched such equipment in the past to have such a chance to learn today. I could successfully learn how to balance while riding after a few hours of practice and felt so bad for letting Mercy outside in the chilly weather. It was a significant step for me in my lifelong learning of how to bike and drive. We signed off the day after everyone had committed to come to practice the following day and went to dine with them at the Chinese restaurant, where we all relished in as many noodles to our heart's content.

Even though it was still cloudy and raining on Saturday, we went ahead and practiced for a while. I now feel more confident as a result of it.

Joemar and Mercy, thanks for the great weekend!

Silver City, Richmond, BC

Silver City Cinema Hall, Richmond, BC

Joemar and Mercy brought Chador and me to Silver City on April 2, 2023, where we watched John Wick: Chapter 4. Certainly, Keanu Reeves and the movie John Wick have had a lot of influence on me. A famous actor born in Canada inspires many people both on and off the screen and in real life.

Movie poster on the wall of the entrance hall.

The maestro assassin (JW), compelled by grief and vengeance, is on a bloody vendetta to regain his freedom that is due. He encounters his friend with a gun in the High Table-designed course, turning friends into foes. After years of enduring great adversity, he finally finds a way to end the High Table’s curse. 

Once the film drew to a close, we took a detour to familiarize ourselves with the area and the amenities offered to the general public. Afterward, we visited Value Village, then Walmart, and had dinner at the Nandu restaurant, which is situated behind Walmart.

Selfie with Joemar and Mercy. 

For a good spend day, gratitude shall be theirs.