Nancy
Ng

A few short years ago, my life profoundly changed following a series of devastating events. It began when I lost my job during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, I worked in a fast-paced, highly stressful environment, often burning the candle at both ends and rarely taking time to appreciate life's simple pleasures. So much so that I didn't prioritize spending time with loved ones. Six months later, I lost my sister to cancer, and I regret not having gone on a family trip when she was well.

Having been given some unexpected leisure time, I decided to take some trips to reconnect with family and friends while reflecting on life's goals.

My first adventure in over a decade took me to Western Canada. We spent the initial days exploring the coastal city of Vancouver. Strolling along the waterfront pathway at Stanley Park, we caught sight of the stranded English Bay barge by the seawall. The following day, we journeyed aboard the iconic gondola at Grouse Mountain, taking in magnificent panoramic views as we ascended 2,800 feet up the mountainside. For those afraid of heights, it was worth the temporary fear because once we arrived at the mountain's peak, we were rewarded with an aerial view of Vancouver, surrounded by the shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean. For our final excursion in Vancouver, we embarked on a ferry ride to Granville Island to browse the artisan shops located in the public market.

Our next destination was Calgary. A couple of days into our stay, we met up with some former colleagues for a day trip to Lake Louise. I've heard it described as "picturesque," but it truly must be experienced firsthand to appreciate the breathtaking and idyllic views.

On the day we visited, the sun shone brilliantly through the white, cumulus-filled sky. The sun's rays gently kissed the snow-capped Rocky Mountains as the crystal blue waters glistened in response. Standing in the face of nature's beauty, I was awestruck and humbled. It was a stark reminder that I had placed work ahead of what truly mattered in life and had missed out on moments like this. I made a vow to myself that going forward, I would prioritize better and savour life's experiences.

A few months later, while on an Alaskan cruise, I had yet another revelation. From our veranda, we had an unobstructed view as the cruise ship navigated through the serene wilderness of Tracy Arm Fjord. In the distance, we could see and hear the hushed trickling of icy waters cascading down the horsetail waterfall into the inlet, where icebergs floated peacefully. Each shard of ice was perfectly mirrored in the aquamarine water. Every bergy bit and growler ranged in shade from bright blue to dark green seemed more spectacular than the last.

The pinnacle of all these awe-inspiring moments came when I witnessed a pod of whales frolicking and feeding in the nutrient-rich waters of the bay. It was exhilarating to observe them in their natural habitat, blowing and logging in synchrony. It's no wonder these magnificent creatures are often referred to as majestic ocean giants.

Seeing the world through fresh eyes led to a eureka moment: to "live life in the present because you never know what tomorrow brings." I used to be a workaholic, but now my friends and family know me as a "JoMO" (Joy of Missing Out) Traveller. Working as a travel advisor allows me to carry out my life-affirming message by helping others create their special moments, just as I have been fortunate to experience.