Finally, I’ve done it. I am an Aussie!
January 26th, 2008 by Dave Cheong
Today is the 26th of January and is celebrated nationally as Australia Day. It marks the anniversary of the “First Landing” (or “Foundation Day” as it is sometimes known) by a fleet of 11 ships sent from England finally anchoring in Sydney Cove for the first time. It is a celebration of survival against hardship and adversity. It is a celebration of human triumph in challenging times.
Apart from being Australia Day, today also has a special meaning for me. It marks the day I finally became an Australian. It has taken me over 6 years, since my arrival late in 2001, to accomplish this. Much like the early settlers, this has not been an easy journey. However, much like my predecessors, the rewards have been rich, gratifying and priceless!
If I could look at myself back in time in early 2001 when I decided to make Australia my future, I would see a naive but determined young man - eager to make his way in the world and to succeed in one of the greatest cities in the modern Western World (Sydney). That young man would dream of a great life, one filled with happiness and success against all odds. What that young man did not know then was how his dreams would pale in comparison with the reality over half a decade later.
Although I’m still a relatively young man by anyone’s standards and still have a lot to learn and experience, I count myself very blessed! I have a wonderful wife and daughter, which I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world. I have great parents, a wonderful brother and his family. I have a great career in software engineering and creation, which happens to also be my hobby and passion.
On a daily basis, I learn and grow. I am constantly challenged everywhere I go and at home. I have the opportunity to eat ice cream whenever I want to. Whilst I am not rich, I have enough money to satisfy my “wants” in life. How can anyone ask for more?
It is fitting then that today, on Australia Day, I become an Australian. It is a fitting ending to this chapter in my life. Being an Australian and living a wonderful and happy life here has been a life-long goal of mine. I came to Australia only with my luggage in hand and a pocketful of money. Whilst the journey hasn’t been easy, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I have worked hard for it and earned my right. Finally, I have my reward! Oh how sweet it is…
If there is one thing I learned through this process, I’ve learned the importance of self-belief. If I didn’t think I could do it, I wouldn’t have tried. If I had let self-doubt and negative thoughts to dominate me, I wouldn’t be sitting here.
There is no goal unattainable if you believe in your own abilities to accomplish them.
Good luck for all your dreams in 2008.
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