The world outside is still dark as I pull back the curtain. The remnants of last night’s rain linger on the ground, glistening in the dim light. Droplets of water cling to the grass and branches, creating a serene, almost ethereal scene. There is something magical about mornings like this—calm, fresh, and full of possibilities. As I settle into my morning meditation, I tune into the sounds around me: the gentle chirping of birds, the distant murmurs of my neighbors. I focus on my breath, letting each inhale and exhale ground me in the present moment. These quiet minutes of mindfulness bring a deep sense of peace, a much-needed pause before the day unfolds.
The Power of Morning Rituals
Starting the day with meditation helps cultivate awareness and presence. It’s a moment to disconnect from external noise and reconnect with oneself. Science supports the benefits of meditation, from reducing stress to enhancing concentration and emotional regulation. For me, this practice is a reminder that life is best lived with intention—each breath, each thought, and each action shaping the day ahead.
After meditation, I take a sip of water, feeling its refreshing coolness as I prepare for my morning ride. The drizzle outside hasn’t stopped, and as I step out, light raindrops kiss my skin. I hop onto my bike, embracing the sensation of the wind and rain against me. There’s a unique kind of freedom that comes with cycling—an exhilarating sense of movement, a break from stillness, a reminder of strength and endurance.
Training as a Metaphor for Life
Returning to my training routine is both a challenge and a reward. The upcoming race looms ahead, pushing me to refine my skills, increase my stamina, and strengthen my mindset. Training is not just about physical endurance—it’s a metaphor for life itself. Like any journey, it demands discipline, resilience, and a commitment to growth. Some days are easier than others; some rides feel effortless, while others test my limits. But with every pedal stroke, I remind myself that progress is built on consistency.
Reflection on Giving Back
As I cross Sai Gon Bridge, my thoughts drift to a different kind of journey—the one I took over a decade ago when I received a life-changing scholarship. This past week, I’ve been involved in selecting candidates for UWC scholarships. It has been an emotional process, filled with moments of joy and heartbreak. Extending opportunities to young, deserving students is a privilege, yet it also comes with difficult decisions. I wish I could offer scholarships to all the candidates. Saying no to exceptional students is never easy.
Despite the bittersweet nature of the selection process, I find solace in knowing that the chosen recipients will embark on transformative experiences. Just as my life changed through education, theirs will too. The opportunity to study in a diverse, intellectually stimulating environment will shape their perspectives, challenge their beliefs, and prepare them for a future of impact. Seeing these students step into their potential reignites my own sense of purpose—it’s a reminder of why I strive to give back.
Finding Balance Between Reflection and Action
As I continue my ride, I acknowledge the blend of emotions within me—gratitude, hope, and a tinge of sadness. Life is a constant interplay of highs and lows, wins and losses. The key is to embrace both with an open heart. Whether it’s the quiet moments of meditation, the exhilarating rush of cycling, or the weight of difficult decisions, each experience holds value.
Personal growth, much like training, requires perseverance. It demands showing up, even when it’s tough, pushing forward despite setbacks, and finding joy in the small wins. It’s about living consciously—paying attention to the present while working toward the future.
As I wrap up my morning ride, I feel a renewed sense of clarity. The drizzle has lightened, and the city begins to awaken. I pedal forward, knowing that every effort—whether in training, work, or personal endeavors—contributes to something greater. Life is a continuous cycle of learning, growing, and giving back. And in the stillness of the morning or the momentum of the ride, I find my purpose reinforced: to live fully, train diligently, and uplift others along the way.