Reflections on the Winter Solstice

To be completely honest, I wrote the majority parts of this blog post two days ago, on the evening of the Winter Solstice. I added more content into this post today.

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Today is the winter solstice, and here I am in my warm hotel room in Jakarta, Indonesia, writing this post while also reading a short novel by a friend.

The last time I visited Bali, I was a first-year college student on summer break. Now, as I experience Jakarta for the first time, I’m not surprised by the warmth and friendliness of the local people here;). Almost every place I visit, whether revisiting cities full of old memories or exploring new regions, has given me nothing but positive interactions with the locals. Thank you again, Indonesia, for your kindness!

A few days ago, during my flight to Jakarta, a kind Chinese man sitting next to me asked if I was in my 20s and remarked that I gave off a "student vibe." "Are you still a student?" he asked. Well... I may look like one and are currently in school to pursue my PhD, but I sure don’t feel like one. ;) Also, I turned 30 years old recently;).

The past a little over a decade has been a vibrant, colorful, and sometimes wild journey. Reflecting on it:  Moved to the States at 17. Attended Columbia University in New York City. Graduated from Columbia University. Worked in Midtown Manhattan for a few years. I was, and still am in some ways, involved in the local LGBTQ+ community. Fell in love. Had peaceful romantic breakups. Learned that I don’t need to aplologize for who I am. Moved to another country to be closer to my family. And now, I’m fortunate to work on projects I truly care about in an inclusive environment. Already got planned international trips to see my friends and baby very soon;).

What a ride it’s been, from 17 to now. Honestly, I’ve been living in a sort of weird,"in-between" space since leaving New York City, but I am so grateful for the people, projects, and passions that continue to fill my life with warmth and purpose.

New York City, I love you. My vibrant queer community, I care about you deeply. My cuddly, hilarious queen, I will see you so soon. New York and Mexico City, I’m coming for you and will be IN you very soon;).

On this day of the winter solstice, a quiet but powerful sense of rebirth is on the way. Positive changes are inevitable. May I and all of my loved ones never lose our adventurous spirits, gratitude and kindness in this lifetime and the next;).

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Reflecting on this year – the year of 2025, gonna admit it has been quite…an interesting year full of ups with some downs. This year, I passed some important milestones in my research journey, made huge progress in the projects I’ve been involving at, presented my own studies in a few different countries, re-connected with friends in New York City (and met up with someone special there and have been keeing in touch with her…), and treaveled more in Southeast Asia. Went to the doctor’s and was able to get medicatitions to get my minor health condition under control. I also successfully manifested two people who are deeply close to me to be cancer free with good health results and so much more…

Speaking of manifestations, at this stage of my journey, I would say the three key words are: Focus, Attention, and Consistency. It’s ok to feel sad, a little frustrated, or emotional about things in life. There is no need to try too hard to repress your emotions. Cry aloud, sleep, or go talk to some friends when things a little hard. We all deserve emotional (and sometimes material) support from friends and loved ones. But at the end of the day, remember that you are still in control and things can shift towards a positive direction at any second;). Stay focused by putting most of your attention on things that you truly want to experience (e.g., repeat your affirmations, think in your favor whenever your goals come to your mind, visualing positive, loving scenes if you are a visual person) as much as you can. Be mentally consistent…by mentally staying in your desired reality for as long as you can. Remember, our imagination is the realiest reality out there…Focused attention, consistency, and mental discipline get you your manifestations;).

For the year of 2026, I will travel to NYC (again!) and Mexico City with my love. Will focus on more writing, reading, and (more) publications. I will continue to affirm for my loved ones’ health, happiness, and prosperity in all areas of their lives. Affirm for all nationally, economically, and racially opressed people’s safety and peace with actions (e.g, education, monentary donations, or more) as well.

Thank you, 2025. See you soon, 2026!