Here comes June, the month of torturous final exams, the month of enthusiastic, long-anticipated good-byes to the monotony of school; yet, it is a month of change and perhaps, with that, comes the aching of one’s heart.
Whether it is transition into a new academic school year at the same school, transition from junior high to senior high, transition from high school to a post-secondary institution, or transition from high school into society, the confrontation of one’s fear of the unknown is inevitable.
For myself, the shift from a protected high school environment into the boisterous, colossal world of university life is more than frightening. The prospect of living on one’s own is comparative to the departing of Europeans for the New World; it is impossible to tell what lies ahead. Without the presence of one’s support group – friends, family, teachers, colleagues – the world may seem like an endless abyss. However, change is necessary for one’s growth, and because we cannot control the future, we can only prepare ourselves the best we can, both physically and mentally. Change is not necessarily a detrimental event – sometimes it is good to venture into the four corners of the world, explore, and face challenges with integrity. Change can prepare us for the worst that lies ahead and the best that may occur. Just remember, Wherever you go, go with all your heart (Confucius).
“Break open a cherry tree and there are no flowers, but the spring breeze brings forth myriad blossoms” (Ikkyu Sojun)