Routines can be mundane. They can push us to escape from the ordinary and reject the predictable. But, not always.
Routine means continuity.Routine (especially when in a new environment) means comfort. But, routine also helps accentuate and makes us appreciate even the most subtle changes from day-to-day.
Every morning (read: afternoon, or whenever I manage to pull myself out of bed) as I walk towards campus I meet many of the same faces. I've never spoken more than two words to these people at a time, but I feel like they are just as much a part of my Hong Kong experience as anyone else.
You see them everyday, around the same time, eye contact is made and a few words are exchanged, maybe even a smile. And, you move on with your day. It's the ritual underlying these interactions that give them staying power.
Allow me to introduce a few of these characters...
There's bespectacled construction worker. With Arthur-esque glasses and walkie talkie in tow, this man (I like to think his name as Arthur) helps me and hundreds of other students cross the road safely as construction work continues. Arthur never smiles, but each time I pass him he makes firm and direct eye contact--not the kind that makes you uncomfortable, the type that you know he recognizes and acknowledges you. Each time I pass by, I wonder how a man who looks like everyone's favorite 8 year-old aardvark got into the construction business...
Then, there's the United College Canteen cashier. On my first day in Hong Kong, she helped (and never scoffed) at my dehydrated self trying to count the proper amount of coins to pay for a bottle of water. I'm sure she deals with thousands of students a day. But, I like to think our very first encounter brought us closer, and we share a (albeit super lame) secret. Now, when I pay for my water bottles and have exact change ready--I flash cashier lady a smile of confidence. I don't think she cares...but, I still love her.
I've gained a greater appreciation for routine this past month. Is it that we cling to ritual when we are put in uncomfortable situations? Is it a marker getting older (and more boring)? I'm not sure. But I do know that I'm OK with being comfortable in a routine. Shaking things up is exciting and adventurous, but for me the comfort of routine can't be beat....Hot chocolate gives it a run for its money, though. And blankets.
Always,
Danyal
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