The Life You Want

I’m in a contemplative mood.  The last few weeks I’ve been thinking a lot about “time” and “life”.  After being in Laos twice in the past month, you can’t help but notice how “time” there seems to move at a slower pace than that of hectic Bangkok with its buzzling streets and traffic jams.  “Life” seems more simpler, more calm, more peaceful.  Coupled with the charming nature of the Laotian people who are honest, friendly and down to earth, it’s no wonder many find themselves struck by its charm.  Many Thais I know have thought,  sometimes not so quietly, “wouldn’t it be great if I could live here in Laos?”  Yes it would be. It would be absolutely wonderful, but last I heard land prices have been soaring.  Things are about to change. Malls are coming, construction is booming, modernisation is knocking at its doorstep.

So what is it about Laos that is so charming, so alluring that makes us want to pick up house,  cross over the Mekong River and settle down?  Is it  the dream of a slower, quieter life?  Is it the gentle and honest nature of the Laotian people? I believe the answer is a little bit of both.  We are nostalgic for a past when life was simpler, more caring, more down to earth.  Modern and more developed,  our capitalist society have rendered us victims to money, power and influence.

Yet the truth of the matter is, the life you want really depends on you.  You can have the life you want, wherever you want it, however you want it.  It’s just a matter of knowing what you want.  This applies to all aspects of life.

If you want a quiet life, a simple life then do so.  Live quietly, stay home more, be honest, be caring, don’t give in to materialistic wants.  Don’t do things, just because others say you should.  Don’t do things because it is what you think they “expect.”  If you want an active, fun filled life, then do so. Go out, party, fill your days with friends and activities. Do whatever you want to do 🙂

Do what you need to have the life you want to live.  Your life depends on you.