A journey of self-discovery.
A solid charting of personal growth.
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Coming to Rarotonga was always going to test myself about who I really am. To test who emerges, how I react, when isolated and with no real influences around me.
The last four months have probably been the hardest of my life, but they've also been the most rewarding. It's not everyday where you're able to grow as a person amongst the vanilla-scented flowers and summery breeze.
This period has been about acting on values I've set, of strengthening my Christian walk, of understanding the ethical questions posed.
The last two weeks, in particular, have seen me search for the strength to overcome the yearnings of home - family, friends, fast food and anything else starting with f.
But it's through those times of absence where I'm left to my own devices, to establish a strengthened system of values and desires.
I'm hoping that through putting these values, ethics etc into practice in my time here that I'll return home a man of strong character.
My changing is certainly nowhere completion, but being under construction is certainly more pleasing than an initial floor plan.
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My Christian walk, in particular, has been a great facet of my development.
A swimming complex in Upper Hutt has what's called a River Ride. It's almost impossible to walk from the exit to the entry as you battle the artificial current created by the pool.
There are two particularly strong points of the current. The first is immediately after entering the 'river', while the second is immediately ahead of the exit area.
I compare the ride to my Christian walk. Starting at the exit, walking against the current is tough, but with some assistance you're able to overcome the first barrier.
Sometimes you can slip and fall back towards the exit, but having a dogged and perseverant heart means you're able to get back up, keep trying and eventually make it out of the ride with help from others.
Where am I at the present stage? I'd like to think I've overcome the first of the two barriers but - similarly to my journey here - I'm still in the early stages.
Regardless, it's immensely satisfying to know I can make it this far - with help, of course.
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Work has been challenging, as those working in a newsroom can understand, but it's a key part of me being able to grow as a person.
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I'd like to once again thank those who have been writing, thinking of, praying for and helping me over the last four months, both here in the Cook Islands and afar.
Developing as a person is tough but it's always incredibly refreshing and helpful to know that others are able to help me on that journey of self-discovery.
So thank you all, from the bottom of my heart.
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With all this in mind, I'd like to challenge those of you who read these blogs from time to time.
Does the influence of exterior objects, articles of clothing, strings of melodies, television channels and the company of others help mould what your interior looks like?
Perhaps, but the only real way to create a solid interior is through your own journey of self discovery. It's certainly something to think about.
Meitaki maata e kia manuia,
MW
