AF Reeves - @afreeves23

Nine months before I embarked on this journey, nearly a decade ago, I lurked on the forum of Dave's ESL Cafe (iykyk), trying to work out what I was getting myself into. The mantra repeated by those already here was that the 'good old days' were long gone. Salaries had plummeted, costs had gone up, and the 'newbies' had derailed the gravy train. The oil had already been tapped. I dare say a fair proportion of those folk are still out here in one capacity or another.

I've thought a lot about that time lately. Inspired by recent reflections on the changes in the food and beverage scene, and the ongoing 'remodelling' of Tây Hồ, I feel the all too natural sensation of itchy feet. Brazil sounds exciting. Mexico cuts an enticing challenge when viewed from the back of my mind. Reminiscing on the Hà Nội I moved to and contemplating the one that lies ahead, I recognise the changing laws and the expectations the new Việt Nam will place upon me. I pause.

I wonder about my future here, reading the complaints online, breathing thick air, lamenting my landlord. Yet every time somebody from home asks about making the move, I still recommend it. Not only that, but I recently toasted one of my best friends here on his fourth 'Nam-iversary' with the promise of more adventures to come, adventures made possible only by the lifestyle our choice to live here affords us.

Reflection, taking a moment to contemplate life, death and everything you can, could, have or should do in between, is, or rather can be, an immensely healthy practice. It has helped me set goals, which, fortunately, have come to pass, at least so far. Now, by no means am I about to set up a podcast preaching the power of manifestation and presence. In fact, it occurs to me that perhaps our elders are more qualified to impart such wisdom than any self-help guru.

Before I get sidetracked on a rant about this talking heads' generation preaching the gospel of 'pick me' with neither the qualifications nor charisma to pull it off, there's a point I'm trying to make: it's worth remembering your journey in its entirety. You need to remember where you came from as much as where you are heading. Of course, there are no prizes for moving somewhere; people have been doing it since the dawn of civilisation. But you've made it this far, and that is something.

It's normal to be critical of change. If there's one thing we need more than ever, it's a critical eye. But that doesn't mean the baby needs throwing out with the bathwater. If a change affects your life significantly enough to trigger a move, be grateful for the freedom you have to enact it. If you can recognise that life is good and some things are outside your control, then enjoy the fact that you live somewhere you feel connected enough to call home. Make peace with progress, because nostalgia isn't what it used to be. — VNS