A year older.

If I was to sum up the season of my life from the 22nd summer to the 23rd, it would be, getting myself back on my own two feet. And a year on, this journey continues towards a valley..

Just a couple of weeks ago, I celebrate my 24th with family & close friends. On B-day itself was three rounds of celebrations! What a blessing ..

The gifts I receive this year is by far the most creative. From family, I received a soft-toy (piggy! wat else) that doubles up as sound speakers! A skinny tie from my younger sister that had printed kisses embalmed all over, and from close friends a kinky combination of a belt and a book "How to give woman absolute *&*4%$^%#$". My-my.. Of course, to balance off the creative gifts , I received practical and greatly appreciated gifts of a red-packet to tide my jobless days, and a pair of funky tennis shoes ;)

If it was ever possible to translate all the gifts, treats and well-wishes, into a single currency; then my guess, my life would have been richer from the heart-felt love and affection I've received. I've always approach birthdays in usual morbid fashion, and this year was no different. The usual opening question I asked myself, in the past year, what's the number one lesson learnt?

It took me a while, weeks to resonate and reflect. Jotting down little thoughts, with the occasional feedback, led to this conclusion. This year's challenge would be the simple issue of WHO AM I?

Knowing who am i, has been a journey of twist and turns. Through my emotional, spiritual and physical evolution as a human being, the question and struggle of one's identity signifies and impacts the attitude, mannerism, values and philosophy of life. Identity seems to be interweaving the trinity of an individual.

I'm in a good place when it comes to my identity. I have come to a place where I don't feel necessary to have a blooming career or a prestigious job to define my place in society. Neither does social standing or the necessity of maintaining high profile associates attract me. My past remains an active part of my lifejourney but I've know that my past won't necessary define the course of my future. Expectations (external or self-imposed) has and may continue to remain a good form of pressure to push ahead, but I'm understanding and learning better, that it should not by any means define my identity. Even the comments from others, snide remarks or praises will shake my nametag.

My actions will define me.

My name is Shane. Nice to know you.

Cheers.