What’s the secret to life?

Today, I head home after a month of traveling across Asia. Every journey offers its lessons, and this one was no exception.

But one small moment shone out on an otherwise cloudier and introspective day.

I found myself sitting in Melbourne's Botanical Gardens, on the steps of the Shrine of Remembrance. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm, golden light over the lush greenery, and the first blossoms of spring filled the air with a sense of renewal, it felt odd experience Spring in September for a change but it was the kind of day that seemed full of hope and possibility. Despite the brightness around me, I was heavy with reflection, still processing a year that had tested me beyond measure. The irony of sitting in a place dedicated to remembrance while trying to let go of the past wasn’t lost on me.

As I sat there, absorbed in my thoughts, an elderly couple, likely in their 80s, slowly made their way down the stone steps beside me. The gentleman, with his silver hair gleaming in the sunlight, greeted me with a hearty Australian “G’day!” His wife, smiled kindly at us both as she followed him. Their presence, light and easy, stood in contrast to the weight I carried in my head.

I managed a smile, replying with a very British “Good day.” And in a rare, spontaneous and unguarded moment, I found myself asking, “You two must have some good advice... what’s the secret to life?” Without hesitation, the old man turned towards me, his eyes twinkling as if he’d been waiting for the question, “Take your time,” he said with a knowing smile. Then, with a playful wink, he and his wife continued their gentle shuffle down the steps, their pace as unhurried as their advice.

For a while, I remained there looking out onto the view of Melbourne's skyline, watching the wise couple disappear into the sunshine. The brightness of the day, once at odds with my mood, started to feel a little more in tune with me. Sometimes, the answers we seek are simple and right in front of us, waiting for us to slow down and notice.

Have a wonderful day. And remember: take your time.