But these are all cosmetic differences. The truth is, many of us are enslaved by the rhythm of a certain lifestyle we constructed for ourselves. There is comfort in knowing that there is a pattern we can follow with hardly any thoughts or effort. We become so addicted to this predictability that every little deviation from the path causes us much distress. We become too weak to pursue our dreams, and too fearful to believe that change can be positive. Each day feels like a carbon copy of the previous day.
But how can life be lived fully if every day feels the same? How can we be said to be alive when we lead such a torpid and mundane existence?
Have you ever woken up and truly marvelled at just how much opportunity the ne day brings? That each new day allows us to do something different, create something good and beautiful, help someone in need, cherish a loved one, or work towards fulfilling a dream?
Many of us hold back from leading more eclectic and colourful lives because we feel defined by our past, are feaful of failure, are crippled by guilt, or place too much importance on how others evalutate us.
Do you act, dress and respond in a certain way because that's what others expect you to do based on past experience? Do you blame yourself for every little thing that goes wrong? Do you restrain yourself from doing something differently because you are afraid of ridicule or disapproval? Did you avoid taking up a new hobby because you felt you were too old or that people would laugh at you?
I'm not saying that we should all quit our jobs and travel the world. We all have unique personalities and responsibilities. And I'm not proposing that we should go skydiving without parachutes. There is a difference between courage and insanity.
Each new day can and should be different and exciting. Dare to have some fun. Try something new. Forgive yourself. Forgive others. Show your love more freely and creatively.
The days can slip away without notice or consequence. Do you want to live yours half-asleep, hesitant and full of worry? Or do you want to live a life that's fully aware, and brimming with intention and expectation?
Eugine Loh, 938Live, MediaCorp Pte Ltd
