Every step of the way / 每一步

這兩天在紐約時報上讀到一篇文章，大家為了真的實現某個決心，利用各種網路的資源如YouTube或43Things網站，把自己的目標公諸於世，如果做不到就要接受實質的懲罰。想想我好像也採用類似的方法，讓自己沒有退路，所以從要讀書的想法成形之後，便沒有保留的大聲嚷嚷，於是我從一年前便陸續收到有關倫敦的小禮物，再加上他人時不時的問候，這招真的很有用。

I read an article in New York Times two days ago about people trying to stick to their resolutions by resorting to Internet resources such as YouTube or the 43Things.com website. After they make their goals public, they’ll be subject to a certain form of punishment if they do not persist. It occurred to me that I had taken a similar approach in burning off the bridge. Since the idea of going to the UK for further studies formed, I had literally “announced” it to the world. That’s why I have been receiving all kinds of gifts about London since a year ago. Besides, friends also include the question about my application in their greetings. I can guarantee how effective this method is.



但是這個星期收到一份心意和實際價值都很貴重的禮物，是小蕙從幾年前的英倫生活時期留下來的紅包，想到其中時間和空間上飽滿的意義，我只能更敦促自己認真畫畫，到時候虛心學習，因為這是我想到唯一可以回饋這份禮物的方式。

Yet, this week I received a gift that is invaluable in its significance and monetary value. It’s a red envelope left by Huei from her days in London. Given the abundance in its chronological and spatial significance, the only way for me to pay back is to take drawing more seriously and learn with a humble heart.

常感覺自己好像在原地打轉，但其實我的每一步都有外在的推力，我要好好生活才是。

I often have the feeling that I am staying at the same point, but as a matter of fact, every step of the way I take is pushed by an outer force. Thanks to these angels around me, I should seize every day and do my utmost.