How Reading, Movies, and Cooking Bring Me Joy

What brings me the most joy in life is reading, watching movies, and cooking. Reading has been a part of me since I was seven, despite my initial struggle with dyslexia. Though I hated it at first, discovering my first book was a turning point, and I’ve never looked back. Now, I immerse myself in all types of fiction, from physical books to Chinese translations, each opening a new world of wonder.

Movie nights are a cherished family tradition. Every Friday, we gather to watch a film—a practice I now uphold, ensuring it remains a way for us to bond and create lasting memories.

Cooking, though a late hobby, brings immense satisfaction. Inspired by my family’s love for Korean food and the costs of dining out, I taught myself to make dishes like tteokbokki and dumplings. It’s not perfect, but it’s always made with love.

Letting go of a friendship was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do, but it taught me an important lesson: people come and go, and that’s okay. For years, I clung tightly to a friendship that, in hindsight, was toxic. I constantly blamed myself, thinking I was the problem, but over time, I realized how one-sided it was.

I poured so much effort into maintaining the bond—doing everything without expecting anything in return—only to see it crack further. Letting go felt like breaking free from invisible shackles. Though I didn’t end the friendship myself, its conclusion brought an unexpected sense of peace and clarity.

It took over three years for me to see that it wasn’t truly a friendship. This experience helped me understand my worth and recognize that healthy relationships require mutual respect and effort.

Iman Sofia, Ampang

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