balancing act

in the realm of abundant individuals, our livelihoods, family, tales, and values find roots in one or multiple locations. some craft their foundation to complement success, responsibility, passions, and liberty. as australians, our existence allows us to traverse the globe with the mere contents of a suitcase, a personal bubble, education, and a touch of common sense. home, where the heart revels, prompts reflection on the sacrifices made for our quality of life. is it the taste and tranquillity of rural outbacks and small communities that beckon us to embrace the essentials?

driven by isolation or a yearning to explore, should we migrate in waves to the heart of cities with everything at our fingertips? in the urban sprawl, people gravitate towards the centre, ideal for those desiring customisable, close-knit surroundings. cities offer better access to education, real estate, business, and many lifestyles coexisting as a single, ever-growing entity. residents marvel over everything at a short distance rather than from afar. some prefer the hustle and bustle, embracing various opportunities and remaining urban at heart for generations. universities, private schools, healthcare, and transportation are easily within reach. yet, for some, this abundance raises concerns of sensory overload.

i prefer the purpose encapsulated in a postcard, steering clear of the city's risks of overindulgence and focusing on intentions surrounding my health. locations deemed 'picturesque' are often coincidentally found in nowhere, where wildflowers bloom without an 'organic' tag to prove their worth. untouched landscapes draw families to rural towns dedicated to originality and a sense of a tight-knit community. through my experience of relocating between city and country four times over a decade, i've learnt that happiness derives not solely from the overall sense of place but from the ability to equally manifest passions and values with agility.