Thursday 11 February 2016

Growing The Garden (+ Reader Survey)

It seemed unimaginable that I just spent the last couple of months in university - the institute of 'thriving talent, desire and opportunity'. I suppose time flies while we're bustling through the avid, networking community and endless friends-of-friends introductions. While orientating myself in the fresh atmosphere and joining the pursuit of self-exploration with thousands of others, it was no surprise that some anxiety was involved.

We find ourselves clinging on to the safety of our comfort zones as we commence the year with new beginnings, whether moving to different neighbourhoods, starting in a new school or a new job. It's natural to be intimidated; everyone has reservations to new experiences. It's only important that this doesn't prolong, for each time we turn down the audacity to make new decisions and overcome challenges, we evade the tugging at our sleeves to grow as a person.


The beauty of a garden lies in its cultivation. This especially rings true in self development while experiencing new challenges. There are gardens are in our hearts, filled with various botanical elements, depending on how we develop as a person. It only takes some water and heart to nurture it.

Never mind weeds and setbacks. Adversities build character. Procrastinating to subdue them or avoiding them completely harbours apathy. One should be able to tell the difference between hanging in there, and constantly asking time to hang on. And as much as I'd like to take heart from what is mentioned, admittedly, I've yet to instill this upon myself, so this has been dutifully placed as one of the resolutions for this year. 

What then, would be the grand plan to achieve this? For a start, know and acknowledge that we're not alone - soak ourselves in the relief that these challenges are not only unique to us, then, go through them together. The world is a much brighter with family and friends. I can never be more grateful to God for giving me such supportive and encouraging people who care; we're all given so much to be thankful for.

Hopefully by understanding this, instead of chastising ourselves or surrendering to these challenges, we'll not only have compassion for others who are struggling, but also learn how resilient we really are.

Until next time ♥

_______________________

It's refreshing to be finally back from my near-three-month break. I'd love to hear updates from readers of how things have been and catch up with everyone. Some might have also noticed that I've put up a little link to a short reader survey. I've received some feedback since - all of which bear the sweetest and most helpful responses. If you haven't attempted it, feel free to do so. All feedback mentioned will undoubtedly be taken into consideration to make The Happy Candle a more creative and inspiring place for all. Your response and time taken to review is greatly appreciated.


This semester is going to be much busier, but several posts have already been planned out for the future, in which we can all look forward to. There are several projects I've been busy with last winter which have yet to debut, so it's going to be a very exciting year. I do realise it's been more than three months since I last posted in this space - winter break was more packed than I'd expected - so much so that I took no notice that The Happy Candle blog actually turned one back last December. (This calls for a short belated celebratory applause!) Here's a jog down memory lane with it's first post


16 comments

  1. Welcome back!!! It's so lovely to have you back and hear that you have been well. University is a whole different scene and it's very possible to make it an amazing experience! You get to learn and meet new people, new experiences and opportunities. Also, knowing that you aren't alone and that there are people around to help and support you, to be with you, is a great blessing. :) Cherish these people and take up as many new opportunities/experiences as you can! Make the most of it :) x

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    1. Thank you, Fatima! It's wonderful to hear from you as well, hope you are doing fine too. Totally agree with what you mentioned - I'm very grateful and it's been an incredible journey so far. Will definitely treasure my time in university. Really appreciate your generous comment! :)

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  2. University can be a busy time so it's totally understandable that you took a little break :) It's good that you're back and I'm looking forward to reading posts from you
    Aww, happy late blog anniversary!

    Neeny | Spoon Full Of Yum

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    1. Appreciate your kind and thoughtful comment, Neeny, thank you! :)

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  3. Good luck with university Dian! Also, happy (late) blog anniversary! x

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  4. i just follow your blog.   nice work.
    www.beautyisallaround6.blogspot.com

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  5. Dian, change is not simple to handle... however as you say, life is about change. When I was younger I was so shy, it was unbelievable, I couldn't speak to anyone unless I was friends with them... then in my late 20's I made a concerted effort to reach out to others, I won't like it was difficult but now I can speak to just about anyone... I agree, we need to help each other and not judge each other... As for school, it is time of you life of great learning, this time will pass... I hope you have a wonderful week ahead xox

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    1. Launna, your comments are always so genuine and insightful, I always look forward to reading them. Happy to hear from your story that you managed to overcome the difficulty and the issue turned out well in the end. Life is indeed about change, and helping each other is definitely one of the best ways to get through challenges as well. Yes, this time in college is merely temporary and I'm hoping to make the most of it. Thank you so much for your kind comment. :)

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  6. Welcome back, and good luck at university! It's super super late, but happy blogoversary also, I've just hit my four-year one, and boy does the time fly.

    Amy;
    Little Moon Elephant

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    1. Yes, time is indeed fleeting, happy blogiversary to you, Amy! Thank you for your well wishes. :)

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  8. Awesome! Please check on my blog on procrastination. PEACE!

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