Apology: A Promise I Couldn’t Keep
In my last post, I mentioned that I would share short updates during my time in Sydney. Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned, and I ended up not posting at all. I want to apologize for the silence and take a moment to explain what happened during my trip.
From the moment I landed, my schedule quickly filled up. Upon arrival, I reconnected with some of my Indonesian friends based in Macquarie. It had been a while since we’d seen each other, so we spent time catching up and reminiscing about our shared experiences in Sydney. The warmth of old friendships made me feel right at home again.
As we chatted, I couldn’t resist sharing my latest hobby — collecting Trading Card Games (TCGs). What started as a casual interest had quickly evolved into a passion and, in some ways, a strategic way of investing. I explained how the market for rare cards, especially in games like Pokémon and One Piece, had grown significantly, with some cards fetching astonishing values over time. It’s a hobby that combines nostalgia, strategy, and the thrill of the hunt.
To my surprise, my friends were immediately hooked on the idea. We dove into a conversation about card art, market trends, and the joy of building a collection. They seemed fascinated by how a childhood pastime could transform into a unique investment opportunity, all while offering a sense of connection to the gaming community. Before long, we were talking about the best places in Sydney to hunt for cards and where I could possibly trade or expand my collection during my visit.
Reconnecting with friends over a shared interest added an unexpected layer of excitement to the trip. It reminded me of how hobbies can bring people closer together, sparking new conversations and creating memories in unexpected ways.
The very next day, I was preparing for an event I had been eagerly anticipating: the Twenty One Pilots concert. As a huge fan of the band, this was a dream come true. It was also my first time going to a concert alone, which added a unique twist to the experience. The concert itself was incredible — an electrifying performance that felt deeply personal. Standing there, surrounded by the music that had shaped so many moments in my life, was surreal and unforgettable.
After the concert, reality quickly set in as I began preparations for my move. This wasn’t just a casual visit to Sydney; it was a practical one, too. The next few days were consumed with buying boxes, arranging the break lease for my apartment, and coordinating with my property manager. I also had to handle the logistics of disconnecting services, sorting through my belongings, and finding a reliable cargo service to ship everything back home. It was an overwhelming process, but one that felt necessary to close this chapter in my life.
By the time I found myself with a free moment, it was already the last day of my trip. I decided to make the most of it by strolling around the city, soaking in the familiar sights, and picking up gifts for loved ones. It was a bittersweet day, filled with nostalgia and the realization that my time in Sydney had flown by far too quickly.
On the day of my flight back, I made a deliberate choice to take a route that passed by my university one final time. With my baggage in tow, I walked through the familiar campus, the wheels of my suitcase rolling softly against the pavement. The moment was serene, with the early morning light casting a warm glow over the buildings and pathways that had once been my everyday world. Memories of lectures, late-night study sessions, and countless walks through the same corridors flooded my mind.
It was a deeply emotional moment — one where I felt both gratitude and longing. Gratitude for the experiences and lessons this place had given me, and longing for the time that had passed so quickly. As I paused to take it all in, I realized that this wasn’t just a goodbye to a physical space, but a farewell to a chapter of my life that had shaped me in so many ways. It was a fitting way to close the trip, a quiet yet profound goodbye to a place I’ll always hold close to my heart.
Although I didn’t get to post updates as I’d intended, this trip to Sydney turned into a whirlwind of reconnection, reflection, and tying up loose ends. From meeting old friends to revisiting places that shaped my journey, every moment was meaningful in its own way. It was a time to cherish memories, say goodbyes, and embrace the lessons that come with change.
Now that I’m back, it’s time to return to my routine — job hunting and creating new opportunities. With this renewed perspective, I’m excited to get back to my regular content schedule and share fresh insights, experiences, and stories inspired by this journey. Thank you for your patience and understanding, and for being part of this evolving narrative. There’s so much more to come, and I can’t wait to reconnect with all of you as we continue this journey together!
