Letting Go Of The Old To Embrace The New
A Personal Tale Of Shifting Interests And Priorities
In the heart of the bustling city, my wife and I lived a life that many would consider ‘normal’. We had our jobs, our hobbies, and our routines. But as time passed, we found ourselves increasingly drawn to a different kind of life. A life that was more in tune with nature, more sustainable, and more fulfilling. We decided to let go of our old lives and embrace a new one — living off-grid in the jungles of Cambodia.
Our journey began with a realization. We were passionate about our careers, but we found that they were no longer fulfilling us in the way they once did. We began to question whether the things we once loved were still important to us. Were we living for ourselves, or were we living for societal expectations? This introspection led us to understand that our priorities had shifted. We yearned for a simpler life, one where we could be more connected with nature and less dependent on modern conveniences. We wanted to reduce our carbon footprint and live in a way that was sustainable for both us and the planet. So, we made the decision to move to Cambodia and live off-grid.
Living off-grid in the jungles of Cambodia was not an easy transition. We had to learn new skills, like how to source and purify water, how to grow our own food, and how to generate our own electricity. However, even with the challenges, we found this new way of life incredibly rewarding. Our days were filled with hard work, but also with a sense of accomplishment that we had never felt before. We were no longer just consumers; we were producers. We were not just surviving; we were thriving. Our old hobbies and interests seemed insignificant compared to the joy we found in our new lifestyle. We discovered new passions — permaculture, renewable energy, sustainable building. And most importantly, we discovered a new sense of purpose.
Looking back, it’s clear that our shift in priorities was not a loss, but a gain. We let go of the things we once loved, not because they were no longer important, but because we found something that was more important to us — living a life that was true to our values. It’s okay to lose interest in things you once loved if you find that other things in life are more important. It’s okay to let go of the old to embrace the new. It’s okay to change your priorities. Because at the end of the day, it’s your life, and you have the power to shape it in a way that brings you joy and fulfillment.
Our life in the jungle has taught us to appreciate the simple things. The sound of rain on the leaves, the sight of a butterfly fluttering by, the taste of a freshly picked fruit — these are the moments that bring us joy now. We have learned to live in harmony with nature, respecting its rhythms and cycles. We have also learned to rely on each other more than ever. Living off-grid has brought us closer as a couple. We work together, learn together, and grow together. Our relationship has deepened and strengthened in ways we could not have imagined.
And so, as we sit here in our jungle home, listening to the sounds of nature, we feel a sense of peace and contentment. We have let go of our old lives and embraced a new one. And in doing so, we have found a happiness that is profound and lasting. In letting go of the old to embrace the new, we have not only changed our lives but also ourselves. We have become more resilient, more resourceful, and more connected to the world around us. And for that, we are eternally grateful. So here’s to embracing change, to finding new passions, and to living a life that is true to who you are. Because in the end, it’s not about what you lose, but what you gain.
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I have plenty of articles on various topics, please check them out. You will find future articles of mine also published in: “Illumination”, “Illumination’s Mirror”, “Writers’ Blokke”, “Midform” and other publications along the way. Furthermore, previous articles may be in the “Living Abroad and Loving It” Publication.
