When I was a teenager, this was a hit song by the boyband Take That, with lyrics that go:
Everything changes but you
We're a thousand miles apart
But you know I love you
Everything changes but you
You know everything single day
I'll be thinking about you

I agree partially with this song, that everything does indeed change. One year ago, I did not own my dirty little car, work in International Business Park and was just about planning our KL trip with Gen, Grace and Daniel. It was pre-David Morales era and life was perhaps much simpler then.

This also leads me to admit that one definitely carries more baggage with age. There is so much more at stake, so much more to grip tightly to.

This year, things seem to be getting worse. The global economy has officially contracted, and we’re in a recession. Belts must be tightened. My focus has shifted. What would make me a very contented person a year back will no longer do so. I’m not just referring to dollars and cents, even though I’m an accountant and do not deny that monetary rewards motivate me greatly. I value other aspects more that I did in younger days – health, my mummy, not losing my cool, keeping good friends etc. I think I’ve also learnt to see who’s good to me and who’s not.

I disagree though, that being a thousand miles apart and knowing that people love you is sufficient. I think being close to your loved ones is truly important. A telephone call or email can never replace the reassurance received from a sincere comforting hug. Aunt Jennifer’s parents are rushing back a month in advance to see her, as her condition worsens. We all fear the worse for her.

Maybe the year end melancholy has set in early this year for me.