There was a time when I was busy with myself. I discussed everything I saw and felt with myself and wrote it down in a diary. It happened during my teenage years, especially in high school.

That was the time that I still remember with longing.

After that time passed, or during my time as a university student, I entered a new phase of life. I was asked to fulfill some new norms.

While I needed to meet high academic targets, I also had to adjust to people from different regions, considering their opinions to be perceived as friendly and sociable. Additionally, my parents were very protective of me, as they feared I might become involved in unhealthy relationships.

If I had been left to grow up alone as I did during my teenage years, maybe I would have become a different and unique person. However, I grew up in a strict Eastern culture. I was forced to obey social and family rules that made me sacrifice some of my freedom of thought and behavior.

I’m sorry, my friends; I always feel sentimental whenever I remember it.

Yet, I accept the life I lead and do not have any regrets. I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to be a better person. Despite facing limitations, I managed to navigate all phases of my life well. I draw wisdom from every experience I encounter.