Today’s quote is not attributed to anyone, and yet, it offers a powerful metaphor for awareness and awakening, not just in the literal sense, but on an emotional, mental, or spiritual level. It suggests that often, we go through life on autopilot, caught in routines, assumptions, or unconscious patterns. We may believe we are fully awake or engaged, but only after a moment of clarity, growth, or transformation do we realise how unaware or disconnected we had been.

“Waking up” here refers to becoming conscious, to truths about ourselves, our relationships, our purpose, or the world around us. It could be triggered by a life-changing event, a deep insight, or even a quiet shift in perspective. The quote reminds us that true awareness often comes in hindsight, and it encourages us to live with greater mindfulness and presence. Ultimately, it’s a gentle call to live more deliberately, to open our eyes to the depth and wonder of the present moment, and to keep questioning what we think we know—because that’s where real growth begins.

It’s the start of yet another month, and here’s wishing a fantastic month of August to everyone. This month, I walked more than I had walked in a month since I started tracking my steps back in 2021 during the Covid months. As of the end of July, I’ve crossed into Malaysia and crossed the top part of Kedah and Penang and am back in Kedah for a short while before I will enter the state of Perak. I am about 700 odd km from home and if all goes well, I will be home sometime in mid-September. I am so excited to be seeing the end of this almost five-year long walk come to an end. What shall I do next? I have some ideas, so I’ll share more once I have finalised them.

I am about halfway through my 2025 reading challenge and as I pretty much say each month, I need to read more. Maybe this monthly check-in is the push I need each month to start reading more. So here’s to hoping I read more and crush my 2025 reading goals.

GG ended her internship on a high note – she was interning at an accounting big 4 company and got a priority offer for when she graduates. She still is not sure if she will accept it or not, but it’s good to be wanted and may be just the impetus she needs to work harder and end school with great grades. BB, on the other hand, is nearing the end of his national service obligation and now has the unenviable task of looking at what he wants to do once he ends – whether he wants to join the workforce, study or a combination of the two.

That’s all from me this week. Here’s to a fantastic month for everyone! Stay positive and keep smiling!