In March we anticipate spring in our minds. Come April, however, we come to realize spring in our hearts. Hence, in the lunar year cycle, March actually falls under what is April in the Gregorian calendar. It is a time when people shed their heavy coats and a variety of spring flowers -- forsythia, azalea, and cherry-blossoms -- will splendidly come into full bloom.
Last weekend, I had a chance to visit Andong, an ancient city in North Gyeongsang Province, where I participated in a two-day 'Andong Cultural Excursion,' organized by my weekly evening study group.
Besides the official program, the trip also enabled me to reflect on my inner self, something that was often overlooked due to my busy professional schedule throughout the past 30 years. As a result, I often felt somewhat empty and depleted inside and it recently dawned on me that I might have regrets in my life if I continued on in this manner.
Thus, to fill this void and to get in touch with my inner self, I decided to attend a small study group on humanism, which is the study of making the impossible possible and through it committing to the search for future happiness for human beings. Therefore, putting everything aside, I joined the field expedition hosted by the study group.
What we learned over the two days was the most satisfying and enjoyable part of the trip. Confucius once said "There is pleasure in learning and practicing." On the bus ride over to Andong, I took great interest in listening to our study group professor's engaging and passionate lecture about the Confucian influence
on Korean culture.
In the past, I considered similar trips simply for sightseeing or relaxation purposes, but this 'Learning on the go' unconventional trip, was indeed very gratifying. Looking out the window and observing the hints of yellow-green hues on the mountains and hearing the light sounds of the spring rain also filled me with great joy.
Our 'traveling classroom' finally arrived at Andong, which was filled with magnolia flower buds about to blossom. The Byung-San lecture hall we visited was filled with the aroma of fresh ink; we could almost envision Yoo Seong-Ryong, a famous Chosun Dynasty scholar, and his disciples finishing their studies before our own eyes. Afterwards, we spent one night at Bukchondak House (Hawgyeongdang) located in Hahoe Town, Andong, where its 200-year old history and traditions are well preserved. We also visited the site where our ancestors practiced 'Noblesse Oblige' during the period of the mid-Chosun Dynasty, in the process learning about the sprit and history of their social role and commitments.
As I left Andong, I was pleased at the newfound knowledge that I gained about the history and culture of my own country. I was also immensely delighted for having the courage to break out of my routine and embark on this journey.
Only those who depart are able to reach a new destination. Only those who depart are able to see a whole new world those who stay behind will never see.
So let us depart from 'common sense.'
Let us depart from 'stereotypes' that lead to unconscious and ignorant habits.
Let us depart from 'routine.'
Let us depart from our roles as rigid 'supervisors,' 'team leaders,' 'division heads' or 'president.'
Let us depart from old and out-dated ideas.
There is an old saying that 'the longest way around is often the shortest.' Regardless of the change in seasons and despite your hectic work schedules, it is my hope that all of you can find a little escape from your routine and make a short refreshing trip or journey. In the long run this might serve as your secret weapon to become a more productive and focused person both at work and at home - the perfect "Idea Vacation."
It gives me great pleasure to share my early spring experience from Andong with all of you - my closest friends and colleagues.
Written by Kim Nack-hoi with the belief that an escape from
the routine can bring much happiness and enjoyment.
