February 26, 2016
I'm JD, a 29-year-old living in the heart of Daejeon, South Korea. My life might not be filled with extraordinary adventures or global fame, but it's a story of bridging two worlds – from a serene rural village to the bustling corridors of a globalized workplace.
As I sit in my office, my mind often wanders back to my childhood. I grew up in a small village, where life was simple and joys were found in the smallest things. My days were marked by a short walk to school, a journey that seemed like an adventure in itself. Those were the days of carefree innocence, a stark contrast to the complexities I face now.
Ever since I was young, I was captivated by the allure of foreign lands and languages. I dreamt of distant places and cultures, yearning for adventures beyond the borders of my country. However, life unfolded differently. When my family moved to Daejeon, the city's vibrant energy and endless opportunities quickly engulfed me, and it became my new world.
My experiences abroad were limited but significant. A 9-month working holiday in Australia opened my eyes to the vastness of the world. I funded my travels to Hong Kong, Alaska, Myanmar, and back to Hong Kong, each trip carving unforgettable memories in my heart.
Despite my dreams of global exploration, I chose to build my life in Korea. I wanted to challenge the negative stereotypes often associated with working in Korea. My job at the university, where I facilitate international student exchanges, is a testament to the fulfilling life one can have in their homeland. It's a role that requires precision, patience, and a passion for cross-cultural interactions.
Every day, I start by setting up my workspace, filling the humidifier, and enjoying a light breakfast while sorting through emails. My mornings are consumed by correspondence with international universities, planning and problem-solving, all while navigating the nuances of different cultures.
Lunchtime is my brief respite, a moment to enjoy the simple pleasure of a meal and to gather my thoughts for the afternoon ahead.
My job is more than just a means to an end. It's a passion, a way to connect my homeland with the world.I love the predictability of my 9-to-6 schedule, the freedom to use my vacation days, and the rare but thrilling opportunity for overseas business trips. Yet, it's not without its challenges. The lack of a clear promotion path and the annual contract renewals remind me of the precarious nature of my job. This uncertainty pushes me to continually develop myself, to stay relevant and competent in an ever-evolving world.
As evening approaches and the sun sets over Daejeon, I often find myself gazing out of my office window, lost in thought. From the simplicity of my rural upbringing to the dynamic, interconnected world of my job, I've managed to bridge two contrasting worlds. I've found a way to live a globally connected life while staying deeply rooted in the traditions and values of my homeland.
My story, I believe, is a testament to the fact that one doesn't need to venture far from home to experience the world. Sometimes, the greatest adventures and the most fulfilling experiences are found in the ordinary, in the places we call home.
In this journey of mine, I've learned that embracing both the local and the global, the simple and the complex, is not just possible, but incredibly enriching. It's a balance that I continue to navigate every day, finding joy in the small moments and satisfaction in the larger picture of my interconnected world.
댓글