End of 2023; Halfway through being 23
One of the advantages of being born in 2000 is the practicality of not having to calculate how old we’ll be in a certain year because we will always be as old (or young; your preference) as the last two numbers in the calendar ( minus the year by one if it isn’t yet your birthday for the year). This is why, every year when we celebrate the new year, I always think that I am one year older although in reality, I still have more or less six months before I turn one year older.
If I say that 2022 was all about transition and moving forward (i.e., graduating, a glimpse of adulthood, moving from flexible hours in college to nine-to-five jobs), 2023 feels more like a period of adaptation. Settling with the new dynamics and relatively higher day-to-day pressures, having to sacrifice some things (mostly time), and having to seriously consider your priorities. These challenges are expected from the get-go but will still feel new when encountered. One day your brain is so in the zone that you can finish so many pending tasks in a day, but then the other you just want to quit everything in the night but would get up early the following morning to finish what you have started, not wanting to lose the fight.
All types of distractions that used to slow me down during my college days are what holding me down these days. Quick stop at coffee shops. Night talks with family and friends. Sports every other weekend. Rewatching Friends from the first season (or simply just choosing one random episode without much thought). Everything not-so-productive is what makes me even more productive during the time I have to work. Thus, 2023 is me finding out that being non-productive is me being productive for my being.
This year was also a period of realization that I am much closer to being 25 than me being 20 years old. Such disbelief considering sometimes I still think I am the same age as a 19-year-old. I even had to look up how long people are considered to be ‘young adults’. The answer? It is best that you don’t know.
Today is the 31st of December 2023, the last day of the year. It is currently raining as I am writing this, and I am inhaling the sweet scent of the rain as it calms the dust away. Although in reality new year is just a change of number in the calendar, I always liked how we as a human sometimes feel like there is a need to change each year. New resolutions. New goals. New promises. It is as if the 1st of January is something that has moved and driven us forward. A blank page and a new chapter or sequel.
Enough with the talks. This year too I would like to share the year highlights. Thankful for moments spent with my friends, family, partner, colleagues, and even all the strangers I have met this year, for their kind smiles and small nods that sometimes have made my day. Wishing everyone I have encountered, even virtually, a blissful 2024.
To be honest, I don’t think I have much energy left in me to clearly describe what has happened this year (also considering I only have a few hours left before it is 2024). Therefore, allow me to share the good part of 2023 in pictures.
Jan 2023
Feb 2023
Mar 2023
Apr 2023
May 2023
Jun 2023
Jul 2023
Aug 2023
Sep 2023
Oct 2023
Nov 2023
Dec 2023
Honestly, having to scroll back through my galleries is a pain in itself. I almost gave up collecting all the pictures.
Epilogue
Funny story: this year, I stumbled upon Songtell, a platform that unveils the stories behind songs through its AI, which interprets the lyrics to reveal their unique narratives. Despite its occasional lack of accuracy in interpretation, as someone who adores delving into the songwriter’s thoughts during the creation process, it immediately grabbed my attention. Since then, I’ve eagerly consumed their interpretations of the music I listen to, wanting to know how AI would interpret the song.
One example was their interpretation of Big Naughty’s One Way. I had already read the lyrics before reading the interpretation, but it still amazed me how they could elaborate on the meaning behind the song even when they could not empathize with the songwriters.
“In the first verse, the artist acknowledges that there may be nothing at the end of his chosen path, but he is determined to give his all and take the risk anyway. He declares his intention to pursue music relentlessly, even if he encounters obstacles along the way. Despite any setbacks, he promises himself to try and not give up.” — AI interpretation (Songtell, 2023).
To end the long way we’ve conquered in 2023, I am here to cheer on you for 2024 with AKMU’s Way Back Home.
“The song “집에 돌아오는 길 (Way back home)” by AKMU (악뮤) tells the story of returning home after a long day, reflecting on life’s struggles and finding comfort and familiarity in one’s surroundings.
In the verses, the lyrics convey a sense of weariness and a desire to escape from the pressures and responsibilities of daily life. The narrator walks a familiar path back home, using the scenery and familiar sounds to distract themselves from regret and reflection. The mention of returning to a worn-out shoe symbolizes the burdens they carry, but they continue on their journey towards their family’s dreams.” — AI’s interpretation (Songtell, 2023).
“The word happiness is too vague, but I hope you find life worth living every day.” — Kim Hanbin (B.I) during his acceptance speech for Song of the Year Award at Melon Music Awards 2018
