‘There is nothing permanent except change.’
– Greek philosopher Heraclitus
As I write this week’s column from the Holy City of Makkah, I can’t help but think how this year has been truly life-changing. From tying the knot, embarking on a major house renovation project, and winning my first national journalism award to facing the heartbreak of losing my beloved grandfather, it’s nearly impossible to sum up the past twelve months in simple words.
Yet, as I sit and reflect on everything that has unfolded, one thing is certain: 2024 has been a year of transformation. Getting married was undoubtedly one of the most significant moments of my life.
It marked the beginning of a new chapter; one filled with love, partnership, and shared dreams. The journey of marriage has taught me many things in such a short period, and I am constantly reminded that love isn’t just a feeling — it’s a commitment to growth, understanding, and mutual respect.
But life, as it always does, kept moving, and shortly after the wedding, we embarked on another adventure: renovating our home. Let me just say, if there’s anything that tests the patience of newlyweds, it’s a home renovation project.
What started as a thrilling chance to create our ideal space swiftly transformed into an endurance challenge. From finding the right handyman to making endless decisions about tiles, colours, and layouts, there were moments when the walls were closing in — literally and figuratively. Yet, despite the chaos, there was also immense satisfaction in seeing the transformation unfold. Every coat of paint and every nail hammered into place was a step closer to creating a sanctuary that truly felt like ours.
In the midst of all this, my career took an unexpected yet exhilarating turn. Winning my first national journalism award was a moment of pure pride and disbelief. As a journalist, I’ve always believed in the power of storytelling, in uncovering truths and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. To have that passion recognized on such a platform was nothing short of humbling. That evening, as I walked up to the stage to accept the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) Young Journalist Award, I couldn’t help but think about the journey that led me there — the late nights, the tough interviews, and the deadlines that felt impossible to meet. It was a moment that validated every ounce of effort, and for a brief second, I allowed myself to revel in the achievement.
But as life often reminds us, joy and sorrow exist. My grandfather passed away just three months after my wedding. His absence is a void that words cannot fill. He was a man of wisdom and kindness — a quiet yet profound presence in our lives. Losing him felt like losing a part of myself, and the grief is something I am still learning to navigate. There are days when his absence feels unbearable, but there are also moments of solace in the memories he left behind. His lessons, his stories, and his laughter are embedded in my heart, and I carry them with me as a source of strength.
This year, more than any other, has taught me the value of resilience. It has shown me that life is an intricate weave of highs and lows, of gains and losses, and that every thread — whether joyful or painful — adds to its beauty. I’ve learned to embrace the chaos, to find gratitude in the little things, and to cherish the moments that matter most. Whether it’s a quiet evening browsing interior design ideas for our ongoing home renovation project, the thrill of pursuing a story, or the bittersweet joy of remembering my grandfather, each moment has significance.
As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting not only on what has happened but on how these experiences have shaped me. Marriage has taught me about partnership. Home renovation has tested my patience and creativity. Winning the award has reminded me of the importance of passion and perseverance. Loss, as painful as it is, has taught me the value of time and the importance of holding our loved ones close.
The truth is, life doesn’t pause for us to catch our breath. It keeps moving, throwing challenges and blessings our way in equal measure. And while we may not always be able to control what happens, we can choose how we respond. This year, I’ve opted to keep moving forward — to celebrate the victories, to grieve the losses, and to find meaning in every twist and turn.
2024 has been a year I will never forget. It has been a year of love, loss, growth, and transformation — a reminder that life, in all its unpredictability, is a gift. As I look ahead to the coming year, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. There is so much more to learn, to experience, and to achieve, and I am ready to embrace whatever comes next.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
