We just came off a week-long break that, while not quite a vacation, was a welcome pause in our usual routine. My husband’s lingering back pain kept us close to home, and though it wasn’t the relaxation we had planned, it gave me rare moments to focus on the little things that often get brushed aside. Instead of travel itineraries or sunny adventures, I took the time to establish a routine of waking up at a set time, allowing me to maximise productivity. This week involved catching up on emails, tidying up the house, and finding moments to relax.
The highlight? Confirmation of my graduation! However, this excitement was tempered by the reality of needing a visa to enter the UK for the ceremony due to my Philippine passport. Having always followed the rules and been meticulous with formalities, I find myself in an emotional space each time I apply for a visa. The process often stirs feelings of inadequacy, as if I must prove my worthiness to attend my own graduation. I understand the reasons behind these systems, especially in wealthier countries concerned about immigration, yet the experience feels unsettling.
While I fully respect the need for regulation, it’s a humbling reminder of the limitations faced by those from countries where passports don’t automatically grant access to much of the world. It’s ironic how easy it is to take the privilege of free movement for granted if you’ve never experienced this process.
I want to emphasise that this is just my personal opinion, and I hope those who don’t need visas take a moment to appreciate the ease with which they can travel. For those of us who do navigate this complex process, the gratitude felt upon receiving approval is significant because it’s hard-won.
This led to a new endeavour – gathering documents, reading through visa requirements, and figuring out logistics. With the nearest visa office almost four hours away, a quick trip to Munich was necessary.
The drive was long but uneventful. Rain followed me like a shadow. Despite the gloomy weather, my brief overnight stay allowed me to glimpse a bit of Munich, even if it was through misted windows and splashes of puddles. I didn’t have time for extensive sightseeing, but there’s something lovely about seeing a city in a different light, even if it’s not the picture-perfect version.
The visa appointment went smoothly, though I wished for more time to soak in the city without the rush. The rain made the streets glisten, creating a calming atmosphere as everything seemed to slow down. Ultimately, this trip wasn’t about sightseeing; it was a necessary step toward something bigger.
As the week wrapped up, I reflected on balancing productivity and presence. Even during quiet times, much happens beneath the surface. It’s not always about grand adventures but appreciating small, often unnoticed moments – whether ticking tasks off my list or enjoying the rhythm of rain on the window.
This week has reminded me of the importance of gratitude. Bureaucratic processes can feel daunting and frustrating, but they also prompt reflection on our privileges and the lessons learned through challenges. Whether navigating a new city in the rain or tackling visa complexities, there’s beauty in every moment, teaching us to appreciate what we have and how far we’ve come.
As I continue on this journey to graduation, I plan to share more blog entries that capture the ups and downs of this experience, from preparing for the ceremony to reflecting on the journey itself. Stay tuned!