Your concise, unique, and impactful piece blends a personal essay, a memoir, and reflective prose in a poetic style. It encapsulates a journey through personal desires and societal expectations, speaking volumes about evolving dreams and aspirations in a lifetime. Your story navigates through a poignant narrative, touching upon the ambitions of youth, the longing for meaningful connections, and the ultimate search for simplicity and fulfillment. Your candid reflection on shifting desires, from societal standards to personal joys, creates a compelling narrative that resonates universally. Your lovely pieces speaks to the human experience, exploring themes of love, adventure, authenticity, and the quest for a life filled with genuine connections and meaningful experiences. This introspective journey holds the power to provoke contemplation, inspire reflection, and encourage our readers to ponder their own aspirations and what truly matters in life. Coming from a similar generation and academic background, your story deeply resonated with me and it might do the same effect for many readers. Thank you for writing this valuable and meaningful piece, Dr Ritchie.