I grew up as the “shipping label kid”—constantly on the move, from one city to the next, one country to another. Finding stability in human connections was always elusive. Growing up, I’d form a great friendship only to leave before it could truly take root/settle. Somewhere along the way, I stopped looking for that sense of security in others and turned inward to build it for myself. I set out on my solo travels at a young age, embarking on incredible adventures alone. But the price of that independence was that I no longer sought to form connections because uncertainty lingered: how long would they be in my life before the cycle repeated?

This year, I’ve also stepped out of my prolonged crypto honeymoon phase, coming to terms with how transactional this space can sometimes feel. Some relationships I once deemed valuable, I now see as little more than a mirror reflecting doubts back at me, gaslighting me into questioning my worth. These experiences were not ideal but brought me clarity, not all connections deserve the weight I give them. The contrast between fleeting, hollow bonds and those that truly enrich my life has never felt sharper.

Even so, I’ve been fortunate enough to meet a few people who’ve shown me genuine kindness, sincerity, and trust. Coming to Bangkok and reconnecting with these people confirmed this. These relationships feel like rare gifts in a world that often rushes past such moments. They remind me of what it feels like to be seen for who I am, not for what I bring.

One flaw I’ve wrestled with is how quickly I let my guard down when I sense even a flicker of genuine care. It’s something I’ve tried to temper, believing it might protect me. But I’ve come to understand that I’m an “all or nothing” kind of person. Pretending otherwise just isn’t me.

In a space where everything moves so fast and “fame” is pursued relentlessly, I’m grateful for the rare and steady bonds that endure. They’re a quiet testament to something deeper, something worth holding onto.

Thank you, thank you <3

Spent close to 2 months on this app, what started as fun and experimentation has flourished beyond my imagination. Surprised to see how supportive the community is 🥰

This weekend, I did something a bit unconventional at my high school (after nearly a decade away), finishing a large acrylic painting for the library hallway.

It’s strange how, when you see certain people as wholesome and unique, the connection you thought was special gets reduced to something trivial and secondary. Moments like these can be discouraging, but also remind me of what truly matters. Not gonna lie, working in crypto feels like living a double life, surrounded by brilliance but often disconnected from what keeps us grounded. So I have to create a little routine for myself just not to lose touch with life. Grateful that I can return to other creative outlets as reminders of the things we stay alive for.

Here’s to the art that stays when I can’t.
Here’s to not losing touch with life’s real meaning, no matter how far we go.
❤️