Miles and Moments_20250406

We absorb a vast amount of information every day—some consciously, some passively. In an age where everyone can be a broadcaster on social media, it becomes increasingly difficult to discern what is true and what is false, what is good and what is harmful.

As researchers, we are trained to question everything with a critical mind. But without a calm inner center, even we can be swept away by the noise.

Lately, I’ve felt more and more like I’m growing—like a tree.

Insects, birds, small animals—they come and go. But I remain. Quietly, steadily, I grow. I shape myself into something I admire. My roots stretch deeper, I hum in the wind. I welcome both sunshine and rain, and endure snow and drought with equal grace.

I have companions too. Sometimes we whisper through the breeze, but most of the time, we simply share the silence. I treasure this slow and solitary journey—not like grass that spreads quickly, nor like vines that climb others. I am just myself. Standing tall. With the sun and the moon.

Today feels like a milestone. I told myself: it’s time to return to my own rhythm.

For too long, I did research in a state of stress—nervous, concerned about others’ opinions. I nearly forgot: I am a tree. I don’t need to become someone else. I want to become someone I admire—resilient, brave, independent, and full of love and inner peace.