Contentment: the quality or state of being contented.
Contented: feeling or showing satisfaction with one's possessions, status, or situation.
(from the Merriam-Webster dictionary).
Quite a bit of time has passed since the last time I posted. I know, I had made a commitment to post more, but the rest of November and December were swallowed by intense work, health issues, and preparing for my trip to Africa. Luckily, work got done, the health issues were identified and will easily be resolved, and the trip to Africa went wonderfully.
Actually, the trip surpassed all expectations. Not only was I able to recharge my batteries, be away from everything, and enjoy the scene in a beautiful location of the planet, but I had one of the (if not "the") most enriching experiences of my life. Africa made a dent in my heart that will never go away: it taught me humility, appreciation for life, people, and circumstances, whatever they may be.
Africa reminded me of how strong a person I am, that I can overcome every difficulty with hard work and a positive attitude. It reminded me that I don't have to do anything I don't want to, but I must work hard to employ my skills where it gives me the most satisfaction and makes the highest impact. It taught me that I can live with less, that I don't need stuff, that a simple life is what's best for me.
Africa taught me that when you find that special someone, you don't let him/her go. At the same time, that you must not compromise your mental and personal sanity to stubbornly prove that you can make it work.
Africa taught me that, while I am and will always be a lonely traveler, I will never be truly alone, but will be wrapped by the embrace of the entire world.
Africa taught me to find contentment where I am, while at the same time to use my present status as a basis for progress, and a ramp to launch into the bright future ahead.
