Day 2 – Clarity

Picture from the White Temple, picture credit: Victoria Chang 

Hello! Today was a better day!

I feel like my group mates and I are finally gaining some clarity. We’ve finally decided to focus on certain aspects on tobacco usage and we’ve become clearer on the kind of footage we want. So, that’s great! It was pretty hard for me to relinquish our previous plans but, I learnt to let go of my expectations and be more flexible. Even though it was scary to just drop our initial plans, I think this will be much better for us as a team. I’m actually very optimistic with our current plans now! ?

Today, I also got to really appreciate the opportunity to actually travel to Chiang Mai and conduct our own research.

Often times when we take part in a research project, we forget about the human aspect of it. We forget that there are real people behind the statistics we get online. It felt very meaningful to really interact with the locals and gain their opinions and perspectives on our own today. It made this whole project feel a lot more personal. And I think this has made me feel more passionate and motivated about this study.

Also, I feel that I was more exposed to the harsh realities of Chiang Mai today. I saw a homeless man trying to seek shelter from the sun by sleeping under a bridge. Unfortunately, he could not even fit properly under it – his head was sticking out awkwardly. When my group and I walked past him we nearly stepped on his head! Honestly, it was very disconcerting. This isn’t something we see at all in Singapore. It reminded me how different the two countries are, and of course, how fortunate I am.

It was very unnerving to be suddenly aware of the great amount of privilege I was born into, and how often this privilege goes unappreciated. Time and again I find myself rushing through life, focusing on bigger, newer goals everyday. I hardly find the time to really sit and reflect on all the things I’ve been blessed with. Today’s experience really reminded me to slow down, and appreciate all that I have in my life right now. Particularly, all the little things that often go unappreciated – food, shelter, family, etc.

Looking back on today, I also feel that I might have been too focused on this study so far. I don’t think I’ve really gotten to truly immerse myself in the Chiang Mai culture yet. While this is an important and meaningful project, I should remember that I came here for more than just research. I’m going to try to keep this in mind tomorrow!

Onwards to day 3!