[Note to readers: This blog post is not intended to urge anyone to adopt any particular religious worldview. As my thoughts and opinions are constantly evolving and may not be identical with my past or future thoughts, each reader is encouraged to be brave in finding inspiration from all sources in order to find the best paths in his/her life journey.]

I have to thank the Lord for all the gifts and blessings He’s given me this year, especially for the gifts of purpose and faith. I have realized that my lifelong passion for learning gives me great purpose and happiness, and that it is my duty to find a place where I can flourish academically, spiritually and emotionally. In the past, I used to feel a lot of guilt at the thought of leaving my country and family, but this past semester (I moved to the States this past July) has taught me that I can best honor my family and country by being the best I can be, and by pursuing the things that give me happiness and purpose–and in my case, these things must always include a lifelong passion for learning and academics, as well as relationships with others who share this same passion. I’d also like to share with everyone a little Christmas and New Year’s gift, which the Lord inspired me to write shortly before Christmas. I hope it can bring warmth and happiness to those who read it.

Happy new year! Kindly keep me and my family in your prayers; I hope this new year will also bring great happiness to my parents, and a new sense of purpose for our family.

May the Lord bless you and give you wisdom, faith, good health and joy, this new year and always.